Dating my 38 S&W Perfected top break

[Warpspasm]

I have a .38 Perfected in about 80-85% condition (according to Blue Book photos). It has a 3 1/4 barrel and a serial number of 5752 on the butt and also on the cylinder and the between the ears of the rear sight. There is also a larger number stamped on the butt, that I'm assuming is an indicator of police use, but I don't know if that's correct. I would appreciate it if someone could ID the date it was produced and any other information you can give me. I don't plan on selling it, but would also like an idea of the value if possible. If you need additional information, let me know.

Thanks in advance.

 

[merl67]

I would think with that serial number 1909, or 1910
With the usual caution that S&W did not ship in any sort of order. Many of these were ordered for police agencies so that is a possibility. A letter might be of help....

 

[glowe]

I had a 38 Perfected 3 1/4" serial number 5029 that shipped June 1911. These guns are somewhat unusual with the double latch, so be careful that you do not forget to use them both before opening. The quill is easily bent if only the top latch is used when trying to open the gun. They are lots of fun at the range. Here is 5029.

 

[Warpspasm]

I would think with that serial number 1909, or 1910
With the usual caution that S&W did not ship in any sort of order. Many of these were ordered for police agencies so that is a possibility. A letter might be of help....

Do you mean a letter from S&W?

 

[Warpspasm]

I had a 38 Perfected 3 1/4" serial number 5029 that shipped June 1911. These guns are somewhat unusual with the double latch, so be careful that you do not forget to use them both before opening. The quill is easily bent if only the top latch is used when trying to open the gun. They are lots of fun at the range. Here is 5029.

Nice looking piece! I've always like the way top breaks look and work.

 

[merl67]

Do you mean a letter from S&W?

Yes the S&W Historical Foundation

 

[Dosgatos]

I have Perfected #3946 which shipped in June of 1909. It has a rack number on the butt which I think is probably from a police department.