Need help with a model 49

[n8nnx]

I picked up a model 49 the other day and was wondering what year it was born. The serial number is 590xxx. It is very clean and has no pitting or wear in the bluing. It does not have the box or manual though. I'm hoping I got a good deal on it for the amount I paid.
Thank you.

 

[RSinOR]

Assuming your revolver has a J prefix it left the factory in 1976-1977.
In 1976, serial numbers started at J370001 and ran until J610000.

If you don't have a J prefix, I"m out of options. I've been carrying a Model 49 for the better part of 40 years, absolutely love them.

 

[s&wchad]

It probably shipped sometime around 1967. S&W went to the J prefix in 1969. If you paid less than $500, you did fine!

 

[Rbo]

Mine is AAV7XXX, I have no idea what year. Haven't gotten around to lettering any of my Smiths.

 

[n8nnx]

There is no J in the prefix. That's all it says at the bottom of the grip.

 

[JP@AK]

s&wchad has it nailed.

Probably shipped in 1967, which fits it in between the change in the thumbpiece (1966) and the disappearance of the diamond in the Magna stocks (late 1967, early 1968).

I think his price estimate is also correct.

 

[JH1951]

IIRC, the J-prefix started in 1969, and non- J-prefixed numbers ended around 786xxx in 1969. So, my wild guess would be about 1966 for the number posted by n8nnx. I'm sure someone will be along soon with a better bit of info.

 

[n8nnx]

Thank you everyone! I got this emailed to me!

 

[mbliss57]

Right. That is a page from the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson vol ?
your Model 49 is in the same s/n sequencing as the Model 36, 37 and 38.
JP@AK looks to be right on based on similiar s/n's I have in my notes.
Ifhttp://www.theswca.org/index.htmlyou join the SWCA you can get access to ship date at no cost.

There are alot more benefits than that including great comraderie, annual meeetings, acess to the SWCA side of this forum and access to some of the greatest collecting minds in both S&W and other brands.
I know this forum is exceptional for that anyway but membership takes you a step further for $60 initial membership and $50 a year after. Of course you could also get a Letter of Authentification for $100 instead...Enjoy your Model 49 they are fantastic CCW in my opinion.

 

[Justin T]

I love my 49. It carries well and is easy to shoot reasonably well.