Smith & Wesson .455

[Chas in ND]

Hi, I need your help.
I just got a Smith & Wesson .455 revolver. Here is what I can find on :
(1) Smith & Wesson .455 revolver on the left side of the barrel
(2) B 43100 stamped on the bottom of the barrel by the yoke.
(3) On the butt of the hand grip frame I find, 43100 of the swivel and a 11 with what looks like a butterfly. The letter V with a I in the middle is scratched into the right wood grip bottom.
Can anybody tell me anything about it?

 

[CatboatWilly]

Tell us a little more and try and include a few pictures. Armed with some additional information, I'm sure someone here will try help you.....

 

[DWalt]

Yours is likely a .455 Second Model Mark II, probably from early 1916. The VI is probably the British broad arrow ordnance stamp. Others will know more. Many of these were re-chambered to .45 Colt or .45 ACP. Is yours?

 

[Jack Flash]

I wonder if the "butterfly" is a crown(?)

Usually, there is a "stack" of markings on the left side above the stocks, also on the cylinder and on the barrel. The barrel should be 6-1/2 inches, BTW.

 

[AlanDavid]

The butterfly mark with 11 under it sounds like it is a crown. This mark at the bottom of the but strap is associated with Canadian military inspection.

Regards

AlanD
Sydney