A glossy, commercial re-blued finish destroys collector value. "Extra quality" pieces retain their original, dull, non-reflective military utility finish. 3. Distinctive Proof Marks and Stampings
If you require a 100% definitive date and destination for your revolver, you must purchase a directly from the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation. This costs approximately $100 and provides the exact ship date and original consignee.
The most defining characteristic of this model is the .
Highly sought after by collectors; usually stamped on the top strap.
Between 1942 and 1945, Smith & Wesson produced over 800,000 units of the revolver, officially designated the “Victory Model.” These were finished with a dull sandblast or parkerized finish (not the shiny blue of civilian guns) to reduce glare in the Pacific theater.
Original wood stocks with matching serial numbers stamped inside the right panel indicate a "better quality" original gun that hasn't been stripped of its parts.
Smith & Wesson produced approximately 842,000 Victory Models between 1942 and 1945. You can estimate the production year of your revolver using this chronological serial number data:
Following a high-profile accidental discharge incident in 1944, S&W introduced a new hammer block safety. Revolvers produced with this safety (or retrofitted) feature a "VS" prefix or an "S" stamped near the V on the butt. 3. Serial Number Ranges & Production Dates
If you share the (using "X" for the last two digits, like V123,4XX), the markings on the topstrap , and the barrel length , I can help you find more specific information about its history and rarity. Classics: Smith & Wesson's Victory Revolver in .38 S&W
The phrase "extra quality" in collecting refers to a combination of originality, condition, rarity, and historical significance. A shooter-grade revolver is not the same as a collector-grade one. Use this checklist to evaluate your Victory Model:
The defining visual characteristic of the Victory Model is the in the serial number. The finish is typically a dull, parkerized gray or blue, and the grips are usually smooth walnut (without the medallions found on commercial guns).
If you'd like to of your Victory model, I can help if you provide the serial number and tell me if it has an S or V prefix. Alternatively, if you're looking for information on: Original markings and proof stamps British Service Revolver (BSR) conversions Estimating current market value Let me know what you'd like to focus on next! U.S. Militaria Forum 1943 S&W Victory model revolver - U.S. Militaria Forum