Date a S&W 38 M/P

[hitch1911]

Hi all. New here, I am a USGI 1911 nut, but have an opportunity to buy a S&W 4" .38 M/P, 90% in the original box. Can someone here tell me the production date? Serial is 474220.
I haven't seen the pistol yet, only the box and that is where I got the serial.
Also the approximate value. I have offered $300, but only because there is a Colt 1947 Woodsman involved in the deal. Thanks

 

[hitch1911]

Hi all. New here, I am a USGI 1911 nut, but have an opportunity to buy a S&W 4" .38 M/P, 90% in the original box. Can someone here tell me the production date? Serial is 474220.
I haven't seen the pistol yet, only the box and that is where I got the serial.
Also the approximate value. I have offered $300, but only because there is a Colt 1947 Woodsman involved in the deal. Thanks

 

[Hoot]

1915-1942 241704-700000 according to the SCSW.

 

[Kamerer]

oops, what I just realized is you have a Box with a number on it. That may or may not be a S/N, or event he one of the gun inside. So you'll need to check that. Once you do, and it if it is the same, the following should apply:


There would have been a number of times that s/n would occur - 30s, 40s, and 50s, 70s. To really be accurate, a picture or description of the box, and of certain features on the gun - front sight, rear hammer, ejector rod style, all make a difference. On the butt of the gun, there may be another stamped character towards the front, separated from the main S/N.

1) if none, and it's a maroon box, likely 30s.
2) if it's a "V", there shouldn't be a box - military shipment in bulk
3) if it's a "C" - then it's a gold box and 50s, mid to late.
4) if it's a "D" - then a blue box and likely the late 70s I guess.

In cases 1 and 2, the s/n was usually written on the box, not on a label. Only in case 4 would it be printed on a label.

 

[j38]

#416xxx was shipped in 1922. Regards, Jerry