New Member Request - Model # and Valuation Help

[CHJTOKEN]

Thanks for looking at my thread. I am a new member and need help in identifying the model and relative valuation of a recently inherited Top Break revolver.
Top Break
Non visible hammer
Serial # 244809
38 S&W Cartridge
Fixed Sights
5 Screw with strain screw in grip
Auto Eject on open
Safety built into grip
Barrel length 3 1/4"

Average overall condition - nickel plated showing some corrosion in several areas but nothing really nasty. Bore and cylinder nice without problems. Cylinder locks up and indexes properly and is tight. Grips in better than average condition. Ejector functions properly. Top break holds tight and true.

I would appreciate any information that the members could provide.

 

[glowe]

S&W simply called this model 38 Safety Hammerless revolvers. This one is a 5th Model and shipped from the factory in the late teens. There were about a quarter million of the 38 Safety revolver manufactured and when the hand ejector solid frame guns came out around the turn of the century, sales suffered for the top breaks. By the end of the 1910s, almost all top breaks were discontinued, except for the 32 and 38 Safeties. The 32 was manufactured until 1937 and the 38 Safety until 1940.

As for value, probably around $200-$250 range.

 

[CHJTOKEN]

glowe - thank you very much for the detailed response - much appreciated. CHJTOKEN

 

[JSR III]

Welcome to the forum.

I would agree with the information supplied by glowe. These guns are not all that rare and only one in the original box in new condition will bring a premium price to a collector.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass!

 

[shouldazagged]

Welcome aboard. As you've seen, there are some knowledgeable and helpful folks here, so I hope you'll stick around.

 

[S&W Oldtimer]

Welcome from Va.

 

[gmborkovic]

Hello new guy and welcome. Not to disagree with Mr. Redfield, but to merely add to, an original 32 or 38 in original factory 2" barrel configuration are getting a little unusual. Not rare but maybe not commonly encountered. A 2" in original box is a gun Im looking for. Best