Community knowledge for oddities or rare prefixes not found in books. Smith & Wesson Forum NRA Museums Database Publicly available PDF lists of general manufacture dates. NRA Serialization PDF 4. Important Symbols Star (☆) Symbol:
Once you master basic dating, you can use serial number databases for more advanced tasks:
Production restarted after WWII, often starting near serial #1 for new models. 1952: Serial numbers in the 7,000–21,000 range. 1962: Serial numbers starting around 295,000. smith and wesson revolver serial numbers database
Note: Be careful not to confuse assembly numbers—found on the cylinder face or yoke—with the actual serial number. Assembly numbers were used during manufacturing to keep parts together and do not track the gun's age. Historical Evolution of Serial Numbers
S&W serial number systems have evolved through several distinct eras: Pre-WWII (and earlier): Community knowledge for oddities or rare prefixes not
) was implemented, making every serial number unique across the entire product line. Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation 3. Top Resources for Research
It is common to mistake "assembly numbers" for the official serial number. On an S&W revolver, the official serial number is always located on the bottom of the grip frame (butt) Smith & Wesson : You may need to remove wrap-around grips to see it. Alpha Prefixes Important Symbols Star (☆) Symbol: Once you master
These do not have letter prefixes. Serial numbers started at 1 and climbed up through various models (like the First, Second, and Third Model Hand Ejectors).
An official letter signed by the historian detailing the exact date your revolver was shipped from the factory, the specific distributor it was delivered to, and its original configuration (barrel length, finish, and grip style).
A brief summary covering:
