Pre Model 10 value

[mag318]

This is from a deceased friends estate and we're trying to determine what it's worth. The serial number dates it to 1955 and I would rate it a strong 98/99% condition. The grips are original and numbered to the gun and there are assembly numbers everywhere. What do you place the current value at?

 

[murphydog]

Looks nice. If you happen to have the box and contents you can raise the price, but I would guess about $350-400. A common gun in uncommonly nice condition.

 

[glowe]

Since I can not hardly see a turn line on the cylinder, I would say almost new without a box. Grips look perfect. I have seen lesser quality guns going at auction for over $500, but all that means was there were at least 2 stubborn bidders who would not quit.

 

[ladder13]

I'd pay $400 without blinking for that one. Got any more?

 

[jrs70]

Blue book states 100% $595 but they group the pre 10 and 10's together. Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson 3rd states $500 ANIB. I would think about $500+. I think at auction it would bring more in its condition.

 

[sgms]

Careful with that auction thing. To do well, like glowe said, you have to have at lest 2 bidders fighting for it, if there are not 2 or more and you have not set a reserve price(lest you will take to sell) you may end up selling it for next to nothing.

 

[DCWilson]

Can that gun really be that old without even a slight turn ring? The finish looks almost too perfect. Is this by any chance a reblued revolver?

If the finish is original, the gun is easily $450-500 in that condition, and over $500 if the box is still part of the package. But if the gun has been refinished, it has no collector appeal and should be valued just as a really good-looking shooter -- say $300-350.

 

[glowe]

Amen sgms! I have been able to buy under those conditions once and awhile. Great for the buyer, but seller beware!

I recently picked up a great condition 38 Perfected with wood target stocks at a small auction for my minimum bid of $150 a few months ago. The stocks were worth more than the gavel price alone.

 

[armybass]

Solid $400 to $450 in my neck of the woods.

 

[glowe]

David - I tried to find evidence of refinish, but I don't think so. There is not even any rub marks on the perfectly case hardened trigger of hammer. To be honest, I think the owner may have put the slight ring on the cylinder by cycling it a few times.

If that is a refinish, it is better than David Chicoine's work, which is almost impossible to do! Flat metal, extra sharp edges, with perfect stampings make this one of the best Pre-Model 10s I have ever seen.

 

[mag318]

There is a slight turn line, but it is very light and hard to pick up in photos. If you look closely you can see it. Other than that this revolver shows almost no finish wear. I appreciate all the input.

 

[ladder13]

There is a slight turn line, but it is very light and hard to pick up in photos. If you look closely you can see it. Other than that this revolver shows almost no finish wear. I appreciate all the input.

Remember I'm buying all 99% M&P's for $400, I have a big safe.

 

[Black_Sheep]

I spent $400 for a 5" M&P that wasn't nearly as well preserved. It appears that you have a fine looking specimen, sharp roll marks, nice color case and the condition of the grips would suggest that it's not a reblue. Locally that gun would fetch $500 from a discriminating buyer, the original box and papers might add another $50...

 

[roaddog28]

I paid $330 for mine made in 1954. It is rated at 95 to 98 percentage. Original grips that match the serial number. They are great but I would not give and more than I paid for it. These are not rare.
Good luck,
Howard

 

[mag318]

roadog, what is what you paid for yours back then translate into 2012 dollars?

 

[CajunBass]

At my dealer, I'd expect to see it priced about $450.00. They might or might not let it go for less, depending on how long they'd had it. I'd expect someone to pay the tag before it got to that point.

 

[ladder13]

I paid $330 for mine made in 1954. It is rated at 95 to 98 percentage. Original grips that match the serial number. They are great but I would not give and more than I paid for it. These are not rare.
Good luck,
Howard

Nice M&P you have there. Be advised there's a huge difference in pricing between a 99% gun and a 95% gun. Sometimes, depending on rarity/availability, it may be double or more the price.

 

[ladder13]

Didn't last very long

http://smith-wessonforum.com/guns-sale-trade/234579-wts-minty-pre-model-10-a.html

 

[toddimusnimski]

Deceased friends estate

If you're buying, it's a great way to remember your friend and help out the family at the same time. Very nice looking Smith.

Just saw the prior post; you did a good service for both the family and the forum member who bought it. Well done.

 

[roaddog28]

roadog, what is what you paid for yours back then translate into 2012 dollars?

I bought it over a year ago for $330. But judging from the OPs M&P I think his is in better condition. Mind has more of a turn line. Also I do not have a box and papers. I still consider my a "shooter". A very nice shooter.
Howard