Early .32 HE Third Model value estimation.

[Dvus]

I wound up with this nice little .32 HE in a trade, and although it's a wonderful little thing, it's just not my cup of tea. (Altogether now, collective groan...) Using the SCSW I was able to determine what it is and approx. when it was made, I do have a couple of questions. It is mechanically excellent, the finish appears to be original and has some minor wear/blemishes but still rates a strong 90%. I know, I know, people hate percentages, but until someone figures out a better system... serial # 275XXX with all matching and the "B" on the barrel flat. It is early enough that it does not have the small S&W trademark on the frame. Where I have questions is that the SCSW says that "Smith &Wesson" is stamped on the right side of the barrel, and ".32 Long CTG" on the left, but mine is the opposite. Is the catalog "mistaken" or is this yet another unmentioned variation? Second, what would you estimate approx. value at? I'm not looking to get top dollar, just a fair price. Sorry about picture quality, my phone is ancient.

 

[CajunBass]

So that's what they're supposed to look like.

I bought one a couple of weeks ago. It was tagged at $400.00, I paid $350.00, BUT...it had been refinished and had the wrong stocks. I have no idea if that price was high, low, or right on the money. My wife thought it was "cute" and I agreed with her so it came home with us. It's sorta like a "scale model" of a Model 10.

The S/N on mine is 333XXX, and it has a "P" on the barrel flat, something I'd never noticed until I read your post. No idea what it means.

My barrel markings are the same as yours. 32 S&W on the right, Smith and Wesson on the left but there is a small logo on the left side. Nothing on the right side of the frame. S/N on the butt, cylinder, and barrel flat match.

I bought a box of wadcutters for it, the only 32 Long they had, but haven't fired it yet. It has a surprisingly good trigger. I did find some snap caps, and it's become sort of a "fidget spinner" for me, finding a space on my desk here "just because." I suppose I'll shoot it sooner or later, if for no other reason than "grins and giggles."

 

[raljr1]

These are fun little revolvers, unfortunately they don't get much respect price wise. I think $350 to $400 is about all they bring unless really pristine with boxes and goodies. I think your is in the middle of that range.

 

[mrcvs]

Valuation. Yes, not much, these are of little interest to collectors. If pristine, maybe $500. With the wear yours has, $350 might be a lot, perhaps valuation is closer to $300.

 

[Hondo44]

Looks like a nice one!

It has no trademark logo not because it’s an early one, but because it was made between WWI and 1920.

The barrel marking is correct, locations changed over a transition period. That period can not be exactly identified from the books.

If it’s all original, mechanically sound and the grips are not chipped/cracked, you might get more than $400 from a knowledgeable collector.

 

[Hondo44]

The S/N on mine is 333XXX, and it has a "P" on the barrel flat, something I'd never noticed until I read your post. No idea what it means.

It means it’s a poorly stamped B. Look closely with a magnifying glass.