New Model 3 question

[The Gila Bender]

Here's a nice NM3, sn 8594, recently acquired from another forum member. A historical letter has been ordered.
Top breaks are a new venture for me; I've wanted a NM3 for many, many years and glad to have found one here. Now I want a Schofield example.
I am curious about the star in the first photo. What is the significance, if any?
Thanks!

 

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

Nice looking NM#3. A star by the serial number on the butt means
it went back to the Factory for repair and/or refinishing. A star on the
barrel is new to me. I've seen various letters stamped there and these
are just Factory Inspector stamps.

Cheers!
Webb

 

[Exmilcop]

LUCKY YOU!!! I've been looking for a decent one for a while and the prices up here in Canada for anything decent are pretty steep. Mind you, from what I'm seeing on some of the sites these pistols seem to have taken a serious uptick in value.

 

[mmaher94087]

The star on the barrel usually indicates a replacement, rework or refinish. If I had to guess, I'd say the barrel has been refinished. Are there any numbers stamped on the left grip frame under the stocks (grips)? They would appear as 11.14 or any other numbers.

 

[The Gila Bender]

There are no numbers or marks of any kind on the grip frame.

 

[65Whelen]

The old top breaks are super cool. When I win the lottery! I have a meager Smith collection but all mine are in the shooter category. Maybe someday the gun gods will smile upon me with a Schofield but until then I'll continue to appreciate these posts. Thanks for sharing.