Value Opinions of Combat Magnums vs. Mod 19-0s

[smithman29]

Hi all. Recently I've noticed a lot of forum interest in early Combat Magnums and 19-0s. Since both of these models are impossible to distinguish from each other (i.e. both are 4-screw and bear diamond target stocks), without opening the cylinder and looking for a model designation, I was wondering if there is any significant value difference considering both guns to be in identical condition. I have a 98% condition 19-0 (no box or tools) and was interested to determine the value difference in a similar non-model marked piece. Thank you for any of your opinions. Best regards.

 

[smithman29]

Hi all. Recently I've noticed a lot of forum interest in early Combat Magnums and 19-0s. Since both of these models are impossible to distinguish from each other (i.e. both are 4-screw and bear diamond target stocks), without opening the cylinder and looking for a model designation, I was wondering if there is any significant value difference considering both guns to be in identical condition. I have a 98% condition 19-0 (no box or tools) and was interested to determine the value difference in a similar non-model marked piece. Thank you for any of your opinions. Best regards.

 

[RKmesa]

I like them all! I have several of each and the Pre numbered Combat magnums are harder to find. Case in point, a local dealer here in the metro AZ has had a shooter grade 19 no dash for 499 out the door and no one has picked it up, but I cannot remember the last time that I saw a pre numbered CM for sale in real life. The only place that I see them is on the auctions and on Lee and David sites...

 

[Alk8944]

smithman29,

Don't know if you caught what RKmesa was trying to say, but the reason you can't distingiush between them is because they are the same model. The only difference if whether they were made before/after model number designation and marking began during 1957.

 

[smithman29]

Thanks for your replies RK and Alk. This is exactly my point Alk. Since the CM and 19-0 are identical, except for their internal marked model designation, why the large disparity in their relative values? Were there that many more 19-0's produced than Combat Mags? I know thats the case with the elusive 19-1's. Regardless of their relative value, I believe each to be a superb example stemming from the era of high quality revolver production...the likes of which we'll not see again. Best regards to all.

 

[RKmesa]

Originally posted by Alk8944:
smithman29,

Don't know if you caught what RKmesa was trying to say, but the reason you can't distinguish between them is because they are the same model. The only difference if whether they were made before/after model number designation and marking began during 1957.

A few of the early ones (within the 1st 1000 produced) were a little different from the later ones in that they have a 6-groove back strap and front strap, whereas the later Combat Magnums (both pre-numbered and 19 nodash's) have 10-groove front and back straps...

 

[mulehide9]

Hey RK MESA.....It's mulehide9 . Congrats on your snub 19 from AtoZ Pawns. Now, who has the 19-0 in Phoenix and how much???

 

[geoff40]

Someone most of having a passing familiarity with recently paid 2K for a CM in the first 100 SN range, condition 98-99% with matching numbered stocks. He did it because he wanted it for his collection. Period. A gun is worth what someone will pay for it. So, is that out of the ordinary? I am not sure, but if it is, its not going to be for long. I wouldn't disagree that early CMs in a near mint to mint shape are already going to exceed what is in the book. Remember, it is a guide. A price guide is not the final word in any case of collectibles or antiques, it is just a guide.
As for the 19-0 or 19-1, I think probably there were more of each of those produced than the CM, but they are without a doubt hot items and will continue to be so, and so they have a corresponding premium compared to the later 19-3, -4 etc. price. I think the $ you quote for the 19-1 you describe is a bargain and I would have jumped right on it.

 

[RKmesa]

Originally posted by mulehide9:
Hey RK MESA.....It's mulehide9 . Congrats on your snub 19 from AtoZ Pawns. Now, who has the 19-0 in Phoenix and how much???

Email sent. Good luck.