Anyone Have serial # info on early 39

[Shield9 Pro]

I have an early model 39 and would like to know how to read the serial to figure out if it was one of the first production runs.
It does say patents pending so if someone could shed some light on this I would appreciate it greatly

 

[Gunhacker]

Early M39's and pre model marked M39's have numeric SN's (no A prefix). It's my understanding that the differentiation between the two is based on the style of safety lever, extractor length and other features that I don't remember.

The first group of production alloy frame guns ran S/N 1001 - 2600.

In 1957 "Model 39" started to be stamped on the frame.
In 1970 the "A" prefix was adopted.

Hope that helps... posting pic would help, plus we all like to see pic of guns, especially early ones.

 

[kwill1911]

I have an early model 39 and would like to know how to read the serial to figure out if it was one of the first production runs.
It does say patents pending so if someone could shed some light on this I would appreciate it greatly

Pictures would help. So would knowing the serial number.

 

[Richard McMillan]

Smith & Wesson did not ship pistols in serial number order, nor were guns assembled in order. The patents pending marking helps to date the slide not the frame. Serial Number 1214 has the PAT'S PENDING",shipped 12/30/55, serial number 1501 does not, shipped 2/15/56.

 

[Shield9 Pro]

The serial # 1343 and the frame is alloy. Maybe this pic helps sorry not a great photo

 

[Engine49guy]

Early run short safety lever gun with non relieved stocks in shooter condition .

 

[JudgeColt]

Smith & Wesson did not ship pistols in serial number order, nor were guns assembled in order. The patents pending marking helps to date the slide not the frame. Serial Number 1214 has the PAT'S PENDING",shipped 12/30/55, serial number 1501 does not, shipped 2/15/56.

Sometimes I think Smith & Wesson is more vexatious than Colt. I have "Pre-39" 9mm Automatic Pistol Number 159X that shipped April 9, 1956 to Evaluator's Limited in Quantico, Virginia, and it has the "PAT'S PENDING" marking on the slide.

 

[Shield9 Pro]

I do know the it has been in my family since 1955