Collector Conundrum

[JH1951]

With the clarification from the OP, I would go for the consecutive serial numbers. Can one have enough pre-40 1953 Smiths? And, what are the odds you will ever be able to mate up consecutive numbers again?
If that doesn't float the boat, get it, sell the first one (of lesser condition/no box) and you have upgraded nicely.
It's your call, and now you have several opinions. Do what makes you feel best.

 

[Tjsuchy7]

Well, I went ahead and took the advice of the 'buy' camp. Can't wait for it to be delivered so I can hold them both in my hands. I'll be sure to post some pictures for you. Thanks everyone for your opinions.

 

[NavySCPO]

Probably too late for this opinion, but how often do you think you'll find birth year consecutive serial numbers?

That alone would seal the deal for me to buy them (pricing of course would have to be in line with their value).

Nice show off pieces to your buddies as a bonus, win win!

 

[SPEEDGUNNER]

I'd go with the consecutive number pistol, you can always pick up the other model at a later time. I have several consecutive sets, all but one by accident. Only one was purchased as a consecutive set, they were Winchester WIN-13 Garands. The others were by chance, where I recognized the serial of a rifle or pistol for sale as being close to one I owned, checked and found to be consecutive, then begged or bid furiously to bring them home. The hunt is part of the fun, the accidental discovery is even cooler. Go for it.

 

[Spurdann]

Grab the consecutive SN as long as you are not paying a premium for the SN. You can sell it or the other to finance another purchase, that or maybe someone is willing to pay a premium for both because of the consecutive SNs

 

[Ackley1952]

Today is the only day you have any control over. When tomorrow gets here it will be today. Buy the gun !

 

[sbrmike]

Good move. That is an extremely lucky find! My pre 64 Win 70 Fwt 30-06 and my PH's (in Africa) pre 64 Win 70 Std 270 were less than 100 apart in serial numbers. they were probably made the same day!

 

[Blind Boy]

You made the right buy. The government will send you a check for it anyway.

 

[Narragansett]

Last year I noticed my LGS had a couple of pre 18 Combat Masterpieces for sale both with Target Hammers and NR Target Stocks consecutive serial numbers no box but in great shape $550.00 each. Unfortunately I could afford only one bought it had it lettered and come to find out that's exactly the way they were made and shipped in 1953.now kicking myself for not finding a way to have bought the other one. I for one think it would be great to have consecutive serial numbered guns especially if their a unique pair.

I would go back to the LGS, ask him to look up and contact the buyer of the other gun on your behalf. All may not be lost

 

[two-bit cowboy]

If I had seen your thread soon enough I would have been in the "buy" camp.

How do you know both Centennials were '53 models?

I have a 4-digit Centennial that shipped in '55. Centennial sales were grim in those early years.

Even with that bit of pessimism and skeptism, having two consecutive serial numbered Centennials is very cool!

Congrats. Looking forward to pictures.

 

[Grayfox]

I sorta have a thing for unique serial numbers. In poker terms, I have a couple of two pairs, a full house and a four of a kind.
I probably would have bought that gun too.

OTOH, I wouldn't pay any more for consecutive serial numbers than I would if the guns were sold separate.