S W 38 Victory Model Serial Number Lookup Extra Quality -

The primary and most authoritative serial number is located on the . Other numbers found inside the frame or yoke are typically "assembly numbers" used to match hand-fitted parts during manufacturing and do not indicate the production date.

If your serial lookup places the gun in the early 1942 range, look for "Broad Arrow" stamps or ".38 S&W CTG" (instead of .38 Special). These were British Service Revolvers (BSR) sent to England.

U.S. property guns are highly sought after by collectors. Look for these specific stamps on the top strap (above the cylinder) or the left side of the frame:

"Extra quality" usually refers to the preservation of the original phosphate finish. Many were "re-blued" post-war for civilian use; an original dull finish significantly increases value. s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality

The Victory Model was a wartime variant of Smith & Wesson's legendary revolver, which would later be known as the Model 10. When the United States entered WWII, there was an urgent demand for small arms. To meet this demand, S&W simplified its manufacturing process. The high-polish “Carbonia” blue finish was replaced with a more durable and faster-to-apply parkerized (phosphate) finish , and the elegant walnut checkered grips were swapped for smooth walnut stocks.

“Not just a date — a wartime history. Go beyond basic lookup with our Extra Quality Victory Model tracker.”

Standard production; Includes U.S. Navy and British contracts. Jan 1945 – Aug 1945 Safety Upgrade: Introduction of the improved hammer block. S811,833 and higher Post-Aug 1945 Transition to post-war civilian M&P production. The primary and most authoritative serial number is

Victory Model production began after the standard M&P series reached serial number 1,000,000.

: The official mark of British Government property.

"Super Victory" models, often featuring a modification to the hammer block safety mechanism, introduced around 1944. These were British Service Revolvers (BSR) sent to England

This comprehensive guide will help you accurately look up your Smith & Wesson .38 Victory Model serial number and identify the high-quality features that collectors value most. The Anatomy of a Victory Model Serial Number

The model earned its nickname from the "V" (Victory) prefix added to its serial numbers, starting in April 1942. This single letter marked a new era for the company and the creation of a collectible icon.

Beginning in late 1944/early 1945, revolvers were stamped with an

This comprehensive guide will help you accurately identify, date, and value your S&W Victory Model. 1. What Defines a True "Victory" Model?