Production date Pre model 10 or M&P 38 spc. ? #c9330 (4 digit serial #)

[one65r]

Found what I think is a Pre Model 10 or M&P 38 spc. 5 screw at my wife's grandparents today. Whats the difference between a pre model 10 and an M&P? Obviously there is no model # inside the crane area. They're mid 80's so no telling how old it could be. Serial # is c 9330 and the 4 digit serial # struck my curiosity. I cleaned it up and it's got an unbelievable trigger. Pinned, Diamond Grips (not numbered) that appear original. Large insignia on side plate and MADE IN USA on right forward section over trigger guard. Anyone wanna take a stab at the production date. Anything sound unique about this gun? Thanks, Sam

 

[Art Doc]

Called both names. Military & Police is technically correct.

C prefix started in 1949. By 1950 they were up to C56,000 because I have that one.

 

[lebomm]

Even the Model 10 after 1957 was still called "Miltary & Police".
They remain distinct from the autos because caliber designation has always been part of the title.
M10 & earlier, M&P .38
M13, M&P .357 Magnum
M65, M&P .357 Magnum Stainless
M58, M&P .41 Magnum
I may have omitted a couple, but you get the idea.

Larry

 

[Butchbird]

I have C5053 that was lettered as being shipped on Jun 24, 1948 -- so the "C" prefix dates at least from 1948 -- not 1949

 

[DCWilson]

The C prefix began to be applied in April 1948 as soon as the "second million" M&P serial numbers ran out. These were the ones that began with a V prefix ("Victory") in 1942, moved to the SV prefix in 1945, and then changed again to the simple S prefix when the V was retired after the conclusion of hostilities.

April 1948 is also when the order came down to replace the single line address with the four-line address ("Marcas Registradas"). The fact that your grandparents' revolver has the single line address also points to production in the April-May range. I would guess that gun probably shipped in late Spring/early Summer of 1948.

 

[Art Doc]

I meant 48 when I hit 49. And C56,000 is from 49 not 50. Having a bad day typing.