This is a gun that has been in the family for a long time. I do not know much about guns, but I am hoping to learn a little more about what we have. I do know that this gun is a Smith and Wesson top break revolver. The number on the bottom of the handle is 57174. We have called smith and Wesson and they were able to tell us that the gun was most likely manufactured before 1885. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Revolver Identification
- Thread starter Tyl2004
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If it is a .32 it is a .32 S&W Double Action 4th model made between 1883 and 1909.
It is probably designed for black powder ammo so you shouldn't fire modern smokeless powder ammo in it.
It is probably designed for black powder ammo so you shouldn't fire modern smokeless powder ammo in it.
Welcome to the Forum. That is a 32 Double Action, Fourth Model, shipped around 1884. It might be interesting for you to know that the gun has been refinished. If you are comfortable with taking off the pearl stocks, it would be interesting to know if there is any pencil writing on the inside of the fight stock. Normally, there would be a serial number placed on the stock during manufacture.
Period pearl stocks can bring a premium, but overall, there were over 300,000 made and value is low. Add to that that the gun appears refinished, you are looking at $250 as a nice shooter. Hopefully, you have someone to hand this gun down to and if so, there is much more sentimental value than monetary value in the gun.
Inusuit
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I have an identical gun, but not refinished. The serial number on the bottom of the grip on mine is 54055 so somewhat earlier than yours. You can tell yours has been refinished because the hammer and trigger are plated whereas an original revolver would have hammer/trigger casehardened. The grips can be removed with a screwdriver that fits the screw head. Be careful because those old pearl grips can be fragile.
The fact that your gun has been refinished reduces the collector value. The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson says the .32 Double Action 4th Model in Very Good condition is valued at $200. Roughly 239,600 of this model were made between 1883 and 1909, so they are not rare. Many, including mine, were stashed in an underwear drawer and shot very little. Your's is very nice, but because it has been refinished, I'd guess the value is around that $200 mark. Other people on this forum with more knowledge and experience may have a different opinion. A family gun often has sentimental value that exceeds the market price.
The fact that your gun has been refinished reduces the collector value. The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson says the .32 Double Action 4th Model in Very Good condition is valued at $200. Roughly 239,600 of this model were made between 1883 and 1909, so they are not rare. Many, including mine, were stashed in an underwear drawer and shot very little. Your's is very nice, but because it has been refinished, I'd guess the value is around that $200 mark. Other people on this forum with more knowledge and experience may have a different opinion. A family gun often has sentimental value that exceeds the market price.
Thank you all for the great information. I think this gun is going to make a great display piece! I plan on keeping it and continuing to pass it down. It has been in the family for many years. It belonged to my great grandmother. Thanks again!
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