Help Identifying

Midds

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Hello everyone,

A friend is inheriting this top break and wants to know more about it. Not interested in selling, but a rough idea of value would be helpful as well. Marked 32 cal S&W CTGE on the barrel.
 

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The standard stocks for Harrington & Richardson revolvers was a square target with bullet holes. They also lacked the standard diamond shape around the grip-screw. The cylinder stop notches are also different than S&W.

The ammunition used in many brands and models of pocket revolvers was 32 S&W, and several companies are still producing them today.

If you supply the serial number, we may be able to date the revolver, but that one is likely from around 1890 to 1920 time-frame.
 

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Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! H&R began stamping the calibre on the barrel in 1904 to indicate the gun was rated for smokeless powder. So, we can be pretty sure your friend's gun is not an antique. I don't collect these guns but my general perception is that they are not very valuable even if pristine. A similar condition S&W .32 top break might sell for under $200. I suspect this gun is half or less that in value.
 
Thank you glowe and Wiregrassguy! The value of this gun is certainly more as an heirloom, and I will pass along the information you provided.
 
A matter of supply and demand, dictate this is not a very sought-after oldie. i've seen this model (or others nearly the same) change hands at shows for under $100.00.

PS: when you hold it, you know it does not feel, nor shoot, like a Smith &Wesson.
 
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