It should be noted, however, that some V-prefix guns with a retrofitted safety block may have a standalone "S" stamped on the sideplate or elsewhere on the frame, while the official serial number on the butt retains only the V prefix. For dating purposes, the official factory serial number is always the one stamped on the butt.
: Some earlier revolvers were retrofitted with the safety block and had an "S" stamped on the butt (as a prefix or suffix) and the side plate to indicate the modification. U.S. Militaria Forum Production Timeline & Characteristics Victory models were manufactured between 1941 and 1945
The serial number prefix on your Victory Model is a key indicator of its production period and features.
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While early production models (V1–V100,000) often featured high-grade matte finishes, later models (e.g., VS prefixes) sometimes saw reduced finishing quality to meet wartime demands.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to looking up and understanding the serial numbers of the S&W .38 Victory Model to identify its origin, production date, and potential "extra quality" features. 1. What Defines a "Victory Model" and "Extra Quality"?
If you're holding a potential Victory Model and want to follow the entire process from start to finish, here's a practical roadmap. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the identification, authentication, and valuation of your revolver. It should be noted, however, that some V-prefix
. This change occurred around December 1944 or January 1945, starting near serial number SV769,001. "S" Markings
The gun was a ghost. Len had picked it up at an estate sale in a cardboard box labeled “OLD TOOLS,” wrapped in a rag that smelled of camphor and dust. It was a Smith & Wesson .38 Special Victory Model—the matte grey finish, the lanyard ring, the V-prefix serial number. But something was off.
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. This article provides a comprehensive guide to looking
Does the serial number on the bottom of the butt begin with a or VS ?
For the most accurate and detailed information, you can request a "Letter of Authenticity" directly from the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation. This service (which carries a fee) provides a factory letter detailing your revolver's original configuration, shipping date, and destination (e.g., a specific military branch or government agency) when the original records are available.
Signifies the addition of a new, more reliable safety hammer block following an accidental discharge incident in 1944.