Post war Late improved “I” frame

[Al Mac]

Made a trade today. For a revolver I have always wanted. This is my first attempt to specifically identify, and I am hoping those of you who have far more knowledge than I, will chime in.

It seems to me to be a Post-war Late Improved 1953. I’m guessing it came in the wrong box but other than that, all serialized parts match including the stocks.

Also, if you would be so good to offer its value.

Images below

 

[kscharlie]

Yes, you have a .32 Hand Ejector - Improved I-frame, but "1953" is not part of your guns description/name. The Model of 1953 New I-frame eliminated the trigger guard screw. The Improved I-frame began production in 1951, the New I-frame in 1953. So yours would likely date from that time frame.

Your pics do not show the front strap, so I am assuming there is no strain screw, as the flat mainspring was replaced with a coil mainspring, eliminating the need for the strain screw.

Your .32 HE appears to be in excellent condition, and as such I would value it in the $700 - $800 range.

Hopefully, Hondo44 (THE I-frame expert) will be along and correct anything I have mis-stated.

 

[Al Mac]

Kscharlie, thank you for your thorough response. Much appreciated

 

[Hondo44]

As kscharlie posted, you have an Improved I frame. We know that because it’s the 2nd Type Improved I with barrel rib and ramp front sight. Therefore it does not have the leaf spring or the strain screw in the front grip strap of the previous model which is the post war Transitional model.

Very nice example and I agree with his value estimate.