Question for the collectors regarding model 57

[Laketime]

Regarding the model 57...It seems like the very early models 1964-66 seem to be selling right up there with pre model 29's.This seems more so in the four inch barrel.Then after the early years they seem to be selling for 40 % less than a like condition 29.The latter half makes sense,but what makes the very early ones so valuable to collectors?

 

[murphydog]

I suspect it is a combination of the earlier style case, the S prefix and the Special Target (aka coke bottle) stocks. And bragging rights when you find one .

 

[Laketime]

I suspect it is a combination of the earlier style case, the S prefix and the Special Target (aka coke bottle) stocks. And bragging rights when you find one .

I think you are right on the money here.

 

[Charlie Foxtrott]

Plus you have to consider.

That there were a lot fewer model 57s made and sold than model 29s. There are only so many super clean ones out there. And there are comparatively many more shooter grade guns.

 

[Mac123]

Agree with the above, an early 57 with cokes and 8 3/8 S prefix serial # just sold in the 3k range on GB. The 8 3/8 barrel length in the early years are extremely hard to find, especially in collector quality.

 

[BigBill]

For so many years the 8 3/8" barrels were like red headed step children and the lowest priced N frames. What has happened like over night?

 

[Richard Simmons]

The nickel ones are quite scarce.

 

[SuperMan]

Saw that 8 3/8" first year sell for $3K...and from the same dealer was a 1964 6" that sold for almost $2600. Both were excellent in the original cases.

I agree with all the above reasons for 57s selling for more than 29s... From what I have seen however the newer guns, say a 1975 vintage 29 and 57 sell close to the same money if in the same condition and finish...

Picked up a 1964 8 3/8" last year but didn't have the box or Cokes. But it was priced right and I wanted a shooter not a collector so that was ok.. It also completed the collection of 1964 blue 57s I have...

4-5-6-8 3/8-and a 58...



Bob

 

[SuperMan]

For so many years the 8 3/8" barrels were like red headed step children and the lowest priced N frames. What has happened like over night?

Funny but I have noted the same thing...not only with 57s but all the models...used to be you couldn't give them away...

Bob

 

[BigBill]

I been buying the N frames in nickel finish when I see them. I said before the 41mag is getting it's just do in the lime light. I thought the m57 & M58 were more popular over the many years. I think it's been a secret for decades how good they are.
But in the 8 3/8" barrel lengths all the calibers are priced higher.