Nickel model 38

[AntonGen]

I'm trying to locate information on a revolver I have the chance to purchase. It is a nickel plated model 38 in the original box with all the original paperwork, purchase receipt, and tools. Original receipt is dated November 77 from a law enforcement supply house in Oregon.

It's frame is marked Mod-38.
The crane is marked with a number different from its serial number. The crane is marked 67352 with a B2 under those numbers.

There is a very faint turn mark around the cylinder indicating it has been shot VERY little.

I would like to find out what the numbers on the crane mean and the approximate value for the pistol. It is in excellent condition for a pistol nearly 50 years old. Any information greatly appreciated.

 

[s&wchad]

Welcome aboard!
67352 is an assembly number. You'll also find it under the stocks on the grip frame. B2 is a fitter/assembler/inspector mark.
It's probably worth $500+.

 

[AntonGen]

Thanks so much for the info. I think it is neat that all the original purchase receipts are still in the box from the law enforcement supply house to the officer that purchased it in 1977. I think it is in remarkable condition for being purchased nearly 50 years ago. And the lack of much of a turn line around the cylinder makes me believe it hasn't been shot much at all. I'm guessing less than 50-150 rounds as there is barely any turn line at all.

 

[Richard Simmons]

Not sure on value but $500 is probably the going rate. What barrel length is it? A 3" might bring more money than the much more common 2" barrel.

Also what color is the box?

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard from ol' Wyo.

Based on the sale date I'd guess the serial number to be in the
J500xxx to J600xxx range.

It will have a barrel pin and a small S&W logo on the left side of
the frame below the thumbpiece. The box should be gray.

The turn line on the cylinder is not necessarily a good estimate of
how much a Smith & Wesson revolver has been shot. Some that
leave the factory with only the routine three shots fired have a
noticeable turn ring.

A nickel Model 38 in the condition you describe might be worth a
fair bit more than Chad's estimate. I'd say upward of $750 or so.

 

[toddimusnimski]

Sounds great but be aware of possible issues with airweight frame cracks. See forum threads below:

Cracked frame on model 38

cracked frame onlight wt.guns


Some believe the crack occurs due to metallurgy issues or over-torqueing the barrel during assembly rather than the use of +P ammunition. Whatever the cause, be sure to open the cylinder and inspect the flat area where the barrel threads into the frame. Even a gun with limited use should be checked.

Welcome to the Forum!

Todd

 

[AntonGen]

Box is gray/silver. Serial #J6260XX. Yes to barrel pin and the S&W logo placement mentioned above. No gas cutting on the frame's top strap above the barrel/cylinder gap and minimal blackening on the front of the cylinder from shooting.

 

[s&wchad]

I'm curious...
What's the selling price?