Because these revolvers were produced in such massive quantities (over 1.5 million units), identifying the exact history of your piece requires a meticulous . This guide provides "extra quality" details to help you decode the markings and provenance of your Victory Model. 1. Locating the Serial Number
To perform an extra-quality serial number inspection, avoid relying on internal assembly numbers. Smith & Wesson stamped different numbers in multiple places during production, which often confuses first-time owners.
Many carry "U.S. Property" or "G.H.D." (Guy H. Drewry) inspector stamps. Step 1: Locating the Serial Number
| Condition | Estimated Value | |---|---| | 100% (New, unfired) | $880 | | 98% (Like new) | $770 | | 95% (Minimal wear) | $660 | | 80% (Moderate wear) | $600 | | 70% (Significant wear) | $485 |
Look at the barrel stampings. If it reads or ".38 S&W CTG" but chambers a .38 Special, it has been altered. s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
Extra Quality Check: A high-quality finish, especially in original, unfaded condition, significantly increases value. B. "U.S. Property" Marked Topstrap
I can give you a more precise estimate of its production date and intended military destination. Share public link
Issued to the US Navy, US Army, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and defense plant guards. They are usually stamped "U.S. NAVY" or "U.S. PROPERTY" on the top strap.
Original Parkerized or military blued finish in good condition commands a premium. Refinished guns (especially nickel-plated examples) typically lose 30-50% of their value. Because these revolvers were produced in such massive
The most authoritative source for S&W history is a from the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation. For a fee (typically around $100 as of 2025), the Foundation will research your specific serial number and provide:
Over 500,000 Victory models were supplied to Britain, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand under the Lend-Lease Act. These are usually chambered in and feature distinct markings: Broad Arrow (↑): The British government ownership mark.
: This is the official serial number of record . It is located on the flat bottom of the grip frame, often flanking the integrated lanyard ring.
: Indicates a standard "Victory" model. Production began around serial number V1 in early 1942 and reached roughly V769,000 by late 1944. "SV" Prefix : Denotes the late-war inclusion of a new safety hammer block Locating the Serial Number To perform an extra-quality
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.
Victory Model production began around serial in early 1942 and ended at approximately VS811,119 in August 1945. V1 to ~V200,000: Early production (1942 to mid-1943).
You're looking for information on the S&W Model 38 Victory, a classic firearm produced during World War II. The Model 38, also known as the "Victory" model, was a .38 Special caliber revolver that was produced from 1942 to 1945.
If you are looking to verify the specific history of a serial number, you can contact the . They have the original factory ledgers and can provide a "History Letter" for a fee. This letter will confirm the exact shipping date and destination (e.g., "Shipped to the U.S. Navy Depot, Brooklyn, NY").
If your serial number lookup leaves you wanting more detailed answers, you can request an official .
5-inch barrels cut down to 2.5, 3, or 4 inches, often resulting in a missing front sight blade that had to be crudely welded back on.