The top revolver is definitely a .357 Magnum Highway Patrolman, and probably a fairly early one. The HP was introduced in 1954, and later became the Model 28 when S&W switched to model numbers instead of names in 1957. It is an N-frame (large frame) with 5-screws (4 on the right side plate and one in front of the trigger guard). S&W deleted that upper screw on the side plate in 1956, so that kind of brackets when your revolver was manufactured (1954-1956). The s/n of your revolver would be on the butt of the grip frame (after removing the stocks), most likely "S xxxxxx", and that would help us date and better identify the HP. The revolver has definitely been well used, but that was the purpose for these guns and they're built like tanks. The wood stocks have been modified (sanded/re-shaped) and are worn. I would tend to agree that this was probably a cop's duty revolver, and I suspect is a family heirloom. It is in shooter condition as opposed to collector condition, but still has value...probably in the $700 range.
The bottom revolver appears to be a .38 Chiefs Special from about the same time period. The Chiefs Special was introduced in 1950 with 5 screws, but the trigger guard screw was discontinued in 1953 when the trigger guard was enlarged, and the upper side plate screw was discontinued in 1955. Therefore your revolver is later than 1955. Does your CS have a model number stamped in the yoke when you open the cylinder? If so, if would be a Model 36 (1957 and later). The s/n is on the butt of the grip frame, and possibly in the yoke area. Again, this was probably a cop's gun, this one a backup gun (for the HP) since it's in such nice condition. I won't claim to be an expert on Chiefs Specials, but I'm sure some of our Forum gurus will be along shortly to correct any of my misinformation. You have a couple of nice family pieces. Enjoy.
