Looking for information on a 1917

[Ghostdevilguy]

I'm not entirely certain, but I think this is a commercial 1917. Any information that can be given would be appreciated. It has military marks, but no property marks. It has a smooth action and locks up tight
Thanks!
Ghost

 

[DWalt]

Without checking the SN, it is very likely to be a post-WWI gun. Likely assembled around 1921. Has the S&W logo frame stamp, no Made in USA frame stamp, and 1920s style checkered wood grips. Together they scream early 1920s.

 

[Muley Gil]

Yes, it is a commercial 1917. It has the S&W emblem on the left side.

 

[StrawHat]

I have 171xxx in the years 1921-25.

It is a commercial variation built using parts bought back from the government after the end of the war. So some of the parts used had been accepted by the Army and so marked.

Kevin

 

[Ghostdevilguy]

Thanks! Where can I research the serial number? I was going to get a letter. And any idea of value?

 

[DWalt]

You can get a historical letter from SWHS for $100. Chances are it will tell you only its shipment date and to where it was first shipped. That will normally be a distributor or wholesale house, not a specific individual. Nothing about its chain of ownership after it left the factory. But there is always a slight chance that more interesting information exists in the records