I collect WW1 and WW2 pistols and I like to collect them stock, original and unmessed with. I do not collect multiples and only buy one of the best condition examples I can find for a particular model I need for my collection. So in short, condition and originality are of the highest importance for me.
About 30 years ago the father of a friend was liquidating his gun collection and I had first ‘shot’ at the pieces I wanted from the collection. This M1917 S&W revolver was in the collection and since it looked virtually mint and original, plus I needed one for my collection, I ended up buying it for around $200. This price was what the father had paid for it and he thought it was a fair selling price. Unfortunately since information can be dangerous, I have since found that the reason it is so nice is that it was sent back to the factory in April of 1971 (471 stamped on frame under grip) for a reblue/refurbishing. I never realized until then that the extra S&W logo and extra 3 lines of address info stamped into the side plate and frame had been added during the factory visit. To say the least my bubble was burst. Now I don’t think of this gun as worthy for my collection because of this defilement. I have even been debating taking it to the range as a shooter while looking for another more original example. I guess I need a little stroking/opinions here from you experts about the continued desirability, value, etc. of this gun after the reblue and extra stampings were done at the factory. I honestly feel they ruined it, but I am open for opinions. FYI. The revolver is serial 131870 and is all matching and correct. Also, with all original markings, proofs and stamps still strong and in the correct places. Finish is a minimum of 99% and the case hardening on hammer and trigger is still strong.
About 30 years ago the father of a friend was liquidating his gun collection and I had first ‘shot’ at the pieces I wanted from the collection. This M1917 S&W revolver was in the collection and since it looked virtually mint and original, plus I needed one for my collection, I ended up buying it for around $200. This price was what the father had paid for it and he thought it was a fair selling price. Unfortunately since information can be dangerous, I have since found that the reason it is so nice is that it was sent back to the factory in April of 1971 (471 stamped on frame under grip) for a reblue/refurbishing. I never realized until then that the extra S&W logo and extra 3 lines of address info stamped into the side plate and frame had been added during the factory visit. To say the least my bubble was burst. Now I don’t think of this gun as worthy for my collection because of this defilement. I have even been debating taking it to the range as a shooter while looking for another more original example. I guess I need a little stroking/opinions here from you experts about the continued desirability, value, etc. of this gun after the reblue and extra stampings were done at the factory. I honestly feel they ruined it, but I am open for opinions. FYI. The revolver is serial 131870 and is all matching and correct. Also, with all original markings, proofs and stamps still strong and in the correct places. Finish is a minimum of 99% and the case hardening on hammer and trigger is still strong.
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