S&W 5 shot 38

[Joebuc3311]

My grandfather left me a S&W 5 shot .38 Revolver. On the top of the barrel it says the first patent date was Jan 24, 63 and the last patent date Jan 3, 1982. The serial number on it is 106841. Does anyone have any idea how old this gun is. It is not in very good shape but I am just curious as to its age.

Thanks

 

[policerevolvercollector]

Please post a pic & that'll help ID the gun.

 

[Jimmyjones]

Are the patent date 1863 & 1882 ?

They stopped putting the patent dates on the barrel after WWII.

I'm not familiar with ones that early, someone with more knowledge will be by to help.

 

[murphydog]

Welcome! Here is a post that describes the information we need for an ID:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-antiques/326458-identify-your-gun.html

It could be one of a few different models. Photos as noted above would help for a value estimate. Hope this is helpful.

 

[glowe]

On the top of the barrel it says . . . the last patent date Jan 3, 1982.

Welcome to the Forum. I think your last patent date should be Jan 3, '82. If so, you have a 38 Double Action, Second Model, shipped from the factory around 1884. There were about 115,000 of this model made, with over a half-million models of 38 Double Actions made from 1880 to 1911.

Pictures are always welcome.

 

[gdnagle]

And a warm

from “wild and wonderful “ West Virginia at least that’s what they tell us.