Pre M37 value estimate request

[limhyl]

I just acquired this from an older gentleman for $350 and was wondering what it is worth on the market? Based on the excellent input from forum member Hondo44, it is pre M37 and was shipped around 1955. It appears almost unfired with just a hint of holster wear. Stocks are matched by serial numbers and in excellent shape. No box or papers. Thanks in advance.

 

[22hipower]

Where I shop I would be a buyer at about $400, more with box/papers. However, I see comparable ones priced at $499-$599 but not selling. Many of us appreciate those older classic revolvers but for someone looking for a carry gun, recent prices offered for new S&W J frame 38s are as low as $309.99 with free shipping. Anyway, nice gun, enjoy.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

 

[two-bit cowboy]

That's a looker!

I picked this one up a few months ago for a wee bit more than $400, but I considered it really low for what I got. Serial number's about 40,000 newer than yours.

Hope this helps.

 

[Jingles]

I picked one up last year - similar vintage and condition (1956) - I paid $550 but California prices tend to run a bit higher than most states. It is the easiest gun to carry I have ever had. Small, light, easy to conceal.

 

[murphydog]

You got it for a very good price and you might get $50-100 more should you decide to sell it - but I wouldn't .

 

[mbliss57]

You got it for a very good price and you might get $50-100 more should you decide to sell it - but I wouldn't .

What murphydog said... if it were a 1st year production gun with a small trigger guard and smaller grip it would be worth a lot more. That s/n is just not low enough to land you a "Baby Chief Special Airweight" It is however, a very nice condition early Chiefs Special Airweight, which makes what you paid for it a good price. But IMO it won't sell for much more than what you paid. The best place to sell an older hand ejector like that would be on a Forum like this or other internet forum unless you know someone personally who wants one. Most gun shops, pawn shops and gun shows will want to give you less than what you paid. Maybe even half. Auction sites can be helpful for rare or highly desirable guns but you pay a commission. I hope this helps.

 

[limhyl]

I actually bought it as a daily carry but wanted to check if it was something that should go into the safe. Glad I checked with you guys.

 

[s&wchad]

Lovely little gun.
I would own that in a heartbeat if I found it for $350. Michigan gun prices are typically lower than other States, but I'd expect that to bring about $500 around here - maybe a little more.

It's still in high condition after more than sixty years. I might shoot it a little, but I wouldn't holster or carry it.