Question about serial number for 27-3 FBI Commemorative

[MHodg78321]

Hello, I'm new to the forum and just starting to collect Smith and Wesson older .357 revolvers. I just purchased a 27-3 FBI Commemorative and have a questions about which is the correct serial number. There is a number stamped on the butt between the grips and the same number is stamped behind the cylinder hinge above where the model number is stamped. Then there is a second number that is stamped below the cylinder on the same side as the thumb release. Can anyone tell me what that number would be? I have attached photos? I think..

Also, It did not have any of the original paperwork and I was considering getting that Letter of Authenticity from S&W Historical Foundation, has anyone here done that? Is it worth it?

Finally, I got this gun because my father was an undercover agent for years a long time ago and I grow up around the FBI. This gun is unfired (except from the factory) would you shoot it or leave unfired? Just looking for thoughts. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Mike

 

[snw19_357]

The serial number is the one on the butt and behind the cylinder hinge.

The other number is the person who ordered it's badge number (or something) and he was probably retired.
The over runs just have FBI stamped there, no numbers.

 

[MHodg78321]

Thank you

Thank you for the reply, that helps. Have you ever ordered a Letter of Authenticity from S&W Historical Foundation? If so did you find that it was helpful and worth it?

 

[Zipdog]

As for value the commemoratives once they are fired they are worth no more than a non commemortive of the same model. Most people want nothing to do with commemorative firearms unless they have a connection to them. As for me I view them as a major distraction more so than a firearm with honest wear and tear unless the markings are removable and the price is right. They are not a good investment and are hard to get rid of when the time comes to sell. Very few eager buyers but there is some, finding them is the problem.

 

[Kernel Crittenden]

A Historical Letter will cost you $75, and about 90% of what it will contain is boiler plate history that you can get for free just by using Google and doing a little research on your own.

About the only thing it might contain that would be difficult to find out for yourself is the name of the agent that ordered the gun, and I'm not even sure that will be included since I personally would consider that info confidential and would hope S&W is not in the habit of disclosing that name willy-nilly.

The real question, in my view, the only question really, is: does the Historical Letter add $75 in value to the gun as a whole? Will the next buyer see the value and pay an extra $75? Since you have no other provenance it might be good to have. I think the answer to the question is "maybe".

 

[Nightowl]

Well, I have always wanted one. I am a big fan of the model 27, and a FBI National Academy graduate, so I guess I have a connection. Never found one available at a reasonable price, and when I did see one, it was priced for more than I could afford at the moment. Mostly, they are overpriced by shops and as stated, worth only about the same as non commemortives.

So, if it were mine, I most likely would not shoot it. I have other model 27s to shoot, so no need to get it dirty.

 

[MHodg78321]

Will remain unshot

Thank you again for your all's input. I didn't really get it as an investment to make money. I got it because of my family connection to the Bureau. I mainly like to know that I didn't get taken on something and paid fair price. My plan is to not shoot it. I have other things t shoot for now and I will be on the lookout for another 27 or 19 to shoot with.