Model 41 serial number?

[gobbler]

I examined today a S&W Model 41 serialized as follows: A140XXXA. The last A is very slightly higher than the rest of the serial number. Would this second A possibly be an indication of duplicate serial number? I have asked before regarding a prefix A on a 5 digit serial number and the reply was that it is likely a duplicated serial number. I assume a second A as a suffix would also indicate a duplicate serial number. Or, is there another explanation?

 

[murphydog]

Per the SCSW 3rd edition, "Certain models may have an 'A' serial suffix as well as an 'A' prefix due to some rare serial duplications." The number itself puts it as a 1970 ship date, but who knows if the second A puts it at a different time?

 

[gobbler]

Thanks murphydog. The gun has a long barrel with false muzzle on it so I assume it is the 7 3/8" barrel. I did note that the "&" sign on the barrel is vertical and not the lazy "&". Would this be correct for the serial number date of 1970?

 

[murphydog]

Help! Model 41 collector needed!

 

[TOM BECKWITH]

S&W 41 A138XXX May-72
S&W 41 A139XXX May-72
S&W 41 A152XXXA Dec-71
As Murphydog notes, the A prefix below 115000 and the A (or B or C) suffex after 115000 indicates a duplicate SN. The lazy "&" on 41s was dropped "BASICLLY" with the change to A115000 - BUT far from a clean break. Have even seen a couple of S&W 46 bbls (dropped about 99000) with a standard "&". As discussed elsewhere - and seen in a number of illustrations for pistols and revolvers - frames batched thru the process were far from done in SN order - and once on the shelf, far from shipped in SN order for various reasons. Jinks can give the actual ship date - but it could have set on the shelf for more than a year.

 

[gobbler]

GREAT INFO!!! Thanks. My interest and education in Model 41's continue to grow.

I can get the afore mentioned Mod 41 for $800. It is, in my estimation, 98% with 2 original magazines that have the black metal follower which has what appears as a loop in the forward end of the follower. No box or paperwork, no muzzle brake. Not sure how hard it will be to find a muzzle brake.

I believe this to be a reasonable price, not a steal, but fair and plan to purchase. Opinions welcomed.

 

[gobbler]

murphydog wrote:
Per the SCSW 3rd edition, "Certain models may have an 'A' serial suffix as well as an 'A' prefix due to some rare serial duplications."

How rare are serial duplications of this nature? Does this add to the perceived value/asking price?

 

[TOM BECKWITH]

Hard to say how many duplications and all reasons, but would guess well below 1000????