Model 39 Date Stumper

[4506517]

The thread on model 39-2 dates got me curious. I pulled out my model 39 no dash in its original box and looked at the serial number. It is 6069X. No letter prefix. Page 401 of the SCSW states production started in 1954 with 00001 which ran to approximately 115000 in 1970. At that time the letter A was added as a prefix. Doing some rough math, that would put mine mid '60s. What do you guys think?

 

[grif684]

37885 was shipped on March 22,1963, so I would say you're in the ballpark with mid sixties.

 

[TOM BECKWITH]

S&W 39 620XX May-65
S&W 39 653XX May-69
Jinks is the source of ship date

 

[4506517]

Thank you so much guys. The gun is in mint shape, wood grips and bluing are flawless. I couldn't get my wallet out fast enough when the seller said $350.

 

[flagman1776]

I hope I'm not hyjacking the OPs thread. I still have my original 39-2 it's in nice shape but has been shot & some customizing which was popular back then... and a swap barrel to 9x21 (Barstow).
Sooo, I traded (probably got taken) for another 39 NIB. It is a no dash 39, apparently unfired. SN 660XX.

 

[TOM BECKWITH]

S&W 39 658XX Jan-66
S&W 39 663XX Feb-66
Again - JINKS

 

[flagman1776]

Thanks!! That's great to know. It's got 2 mags with the funny steel figure 8 followers.

 

[4506517]

The mags that came with mine were kinda strange. The baseplate of one was longer than the other. It protrudes noticeably when inserted. The followers of both mags are weird also. Almost like a skeletonized follower.

 

[grif684]

The longer baseplate with steel follower was used during model 39 production, as well as very early (transitional) 39-2 production. Afterwards, the baseplate was shortened due to the frontstrap of the frames having a recess notch just above the front of the baseplate to facilitate removal, if need be, by simply swiping down with your finger. The early models did not have this feature, and therefore had longer magazine baseplates....the plastic follower was phased in during 39-2 production....

 

[grif684]

The mags that came with mine were kinda strange. The baseplate of one was longer than the other. It protrudes noticeably when inserted. The followers of both mags are weird also. Almost like a skeletonized follower.

Here are some pics of the earlier, longer style baseplates with the corresponding pistols. On the left is the model 39 and early 39-2 style, on the right is the later (most common) 39-2, showing the shorter baseplate and relief on the frame frontstrap.....