Model 56 Value Question (and Photos)

[oldmcdonald]

I've been thinking about selling my Model 56 & was wondering if any of you military S&W experts might be willing to shed some information regarding it's value. It has the original finish and grips are numbered to the gun.

I am attaching a few photos for reference.

Thanks

 

[RLingo]

Expensive, there's one listed for the 3/26/11 Amoskeag auction. I'm watching as well to see what mine might be worth (unfortunately, mine has been parkerized). The latest SWCA Journal has an article which states there are only 27 documented in private collections. Definitely worth getting lettered.

 

[oldmcdonald]

Thanks, RLingo for the information. If you would be willing to email or fax me a copy of the SWCA article, I would be grateful. I was under the impression that there were more out there.

 

[RLingo]

The SCSW III says 15,205 manufactured 1962-63, between serial number range K500001-K515205, most believed destroyed by the USAF. Estimated value $2,500 to $7,500. In 2006 Rock Island Auction sold a "very good (85-90%)" model 56 for $4,600.

 

[bamabiker]

I think I'd hold onto that one. The SCSW says "Too scarce to estimate value; might bring in the $2500 - $7500 range. A couple of sales in excellent condition have been reported i around $4000 - $5000." And the SCSW is a few years old.

 

[Kingpros1326]

S&W Model 56

I was a Minuteman ICBM Launch Control Officer stationed in Grand Forks AFB, ND, from 1976-1987. As a Deputy Missile Combat Crew Commander, and subsequently a Missile Combat Crew Commander, I used the Model 15 and Model 56 in the Launch Control Center and when we had to courier certain missile components that were under "Two-man control."

 

[ordnanceguy]

King:

Welcome to the Forum. It is good to see another S&WCA member here.

I am very interested in your comments about missile squadron use of the Model 56 as late as 1987. Most sources suggest that the Model 56 was withdrawn from use by the Air Force long before that. Your experience proves otherwise.

A few questions, please. How was your M56 carried, ie, the type of holster? The martial collectors among us have never been able to identify any USAF issue holster specifically designated for use with the M56. If this is not classified info can you tell us what type of ammo was issued, ie, the M41 Ball, the HV-PGU 12B, or something else? Was the Model 15 you mentioned the standard 4 inch barrel USAF issue? How was that carried?

Thanks, and I hope you will post further about Air Force small arms. There is a lot of interest in that subject around these parts.

 

[Jaymo]

What is a model 56?
Reminds me of a 15-3 snub.

 

[Doug M.]

I have a vague recollection that it is an airweight version of the combat masterpiece with a 2" barrel. It sure looks like that. My basis for that recollection is unknown to me at this time and I am more likely wrong than right.

 

[GerSan69]

I have a vague recollection that it is an airweight version of the combat masterpiece with a 2" barrel. It sure looks like that. My basis for that recollection is unknown to me at this time and I am more likely wrong than right.

Negative. It's essentially the same as a Model 15 2" with a smooth backstrap.
Originally there was only a 4" 15. The USAF wanted a 2" K with adjustable sights. S&W made them in 1962-63 and called them the Model 56. The 2" 15 was added to the lineup in 1964 during the 15-2 years. (info from SCSW.)

 

[alaskavett]

Oldmcdonald, I and many other members here would love to have that A.F. issue gun! Can you tell us how you came into possession of it? I have never actually seen one and have only heard of there ever being a handful in private collections. Thanks for a interesting post. Kyle

 

[Engine49guy]

Lazarus post but Im curiouse if the rear site and barrel rib have grooves or are smooth like a Model 28 ?

 

[Frank237]

Is the rear sight a normal adjustable, without the serrations ? And does it have "Smith & Wesson" stamped along it's length??

I recently saw such a K fame adjustable. Wondering if it might be for a Model 56.

FN in MT

 

[Doug M.]

Negative. It's essentially the same as a Model 15 2" with a smooth backstrap.
Originally there was only a 4" 15. The USAF wanted a 2" K with adjustable sights. S&W made them in 1962-63 and called them the Model 56. The 2" 15 was added to the lineup in 1964 during the 15-2 years. (info from SCSW.)

*
See? I was right about being wrong.

 

[GerSan69]

I've only seen photos, but from what I saw, there shouldn't be any serrations on the top or the grip frame.