S&W Baby Chief- w/ Half Moon Sight- Serial# 508

[Marty Dav]

I am trying to get a gauge on the value of this gun. It is in excellent condition and it has been my father's then mine since 1960. I am curious as to a value because I want to sell it but, I know gun shops will probably really cut the price they pay to make a better profit. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks, Marty

 

[murphydog]

Welcome!

It sounds to be an early gun of this type from about late 1951.

Photos would help with a value estimate, but depending on its exact condition, original box and contents (if you have them) it may be in the $800-1100 range. Selling it here in the classified ads would avoid the "dealer discount".

 

[quinn]

Baby Chiefs are collectible in their own right, but the early half moon "moon babies" have their own following--including me. Original finish and grips that number to the gun are important, especially the finish. Condition always couts a lot. The last prices I have seen for original guns run in the $1,000 to $1500 range.

By now, you have probably already received PMs expressing interest in buying your gun. If you set a price and take photos, I would suggest you list it in the classified ads section of this forum. Good luck.

 

[chief38]

You might consider selling it here on the Forum. No commission, no hassles and for the most part, reliable, nice folk here who would love to own it. No LGS commissions either.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard from ol' Wyo.

I can answer questions with questions.

Which finish? Blue or nickel

Which thumbpiece? Flat or contoured (probably flat)

Does the inside of the right stock have a matching serial number?

Do you have the red box with a matching serial number on the bottom?

I don't know about anyone else here, but I won't send an email to a one-time poster.

 

[Goony]

Since not everybody perusing this thread may know precisely what an early "Baby" Chief such as the OP's looks like, I've attached a photo of one in the same serial number range as his.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

To keep this thread near the top, hoping the OP will come back ...

I have the list of every Chiefs Special with a 5xx serial number.

His shipped in October 1951.

Goony: if you don't know the details on yours, please send a PM to me.