In general, which is more valuable, a 4 screw or a 5 screw?

[CTSigLover]

This calls for generalization, but please bear with me...

Assuming you have two guns, identical in condition, let them be pre-27's or K-38's whatever...

In general, which is more valuable, the 5 screw because it is older, or the 4 screw because fewer were made?

Thanks...

 

[rburg]

In general, there is very little difference in price except to a very specialized collector. Then, depending on which he collects, and the exact serial number, either could be worth more to him. That as evidenced by how much more he'd pay for one. The problem is if he was that specialized, he would probably show no interest at all for the other one.

Now if you allow all years of 5 screw guns, the terrain changes significantly. But then the interest isn't in the number of screws, its in the vintage of the gun. That wasn't what you were asking.

Using your examples, a 1930s 357 is worth more, given identical condition, than a 1950s gun. Same goes for a 1930s M&P Target when compared to a 1950 M14.

 

[Art Doc]

All things being equal (condition, scarcity, popularity, etc) older is generally better.

 

[44wheelman]

Big difference in the price of a .44, but 22 & 38's not so much. Generally, 5 screws are more desirable