Colt Police Positive .38 /pics

[w-30dreamin]

I do apologize this is not S & W related. This is the only firearms board I hang on so decided to try here first before I venture elsewhere.

I am thinking on buying a Colt Police Positive .38.

You guys have any idea on value,I can buy it for whatever I feel is fair.My friend told me to do the research. I want to be fair to both parties.
I want it mainly because of it's age,I really dig the older firearms.

According to the serial numbers and another site I found with numbers listed,this firearm is from 1907.
It does have a very small amount of rust in the barrel.Is this a serious issue?
I think the grips are wrong,I think it should have black hard rubber grips.
Overall about 50% of the nickel finish has a slightly cloudy look to it.
The box of ammo comes with it along with an old black leather holster.

Any ideas on value?

Thank You

 

[policerevolvercollector]

Looking at the thumb latch,I'd say that it is a "transitional" model that combined parts between the New Police and the Police Positive as Colt was phasing out the former and introducing the latter. There are quite of these around. So, it doesn't really enhance the collectability that much. On most of these, the barrel carried the "Police Positive" markings and the frame where the Colt logo is had the "New Police" markings in a circle around the horse. As they were easing out of one model into the other, the differences became fewer until the Police Positive stood alone. The stocks should be hard rubber in this style:



The ones on the gun in your pic are "Coltwood" plastic stocks that were manufactured in the 40's and '50s.

 

[w-30dreamin]

Great information,thank you for sharing.

I have been wondering about those grips.

 

[Muddyboot]

I would put value at between $300.00 and $400.00 dollars. Their are plenty of Police Positives around, but the non original grips hurts its value. On the positive side, the nickel would clean up well with some Flitz Polish and original or repo grips can be found. Overall a nice PP that would be a good addition to any Colt stable.

 

[policerevolvercollector]

I would put value at between $300.00 and $400.00 dollars. Their are plenty of Police Positives around, but the non original grips hurts its value. On the positive side, the nickel would clean up well with some Flitz Polish and original or repo grips can be found. Overall a nice PP that would be a good addition to any Colt stable.

+1. Muddy boot has the value correct. With a little rehab, it could sell in the $300 + price range. The proper repro grips can be had for $50 or so with decent originals (my choice) for about the same if you shop around. You might be able to sell or swap those Coltwoods too.