S W 38 Victory Model Serial Number Lookup Extra Quality [best] -
You mentioned "extra quality" in your query. In the world of Victory Model collecting, "quality" is a nuanced subject.
| Location | What to Look For | Quality Indicator | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Primary serial, e.g., “V 123456” | Must be deep, crisp, and match the gun’s period font | | Barrel Flat (under ejector rod) | Matching number | No over-strikes or grinding marks | | Cylinder Face | Last 4-5 digits of serial | Should be hand-stamped, not electric-penciled | | Yoke (crane) cutout | Same number | Hidden from casual view—excellent authenticity check | | Inside Right Grip Panel | Serial penciled or stamped | Original wartime grips have this; reproductions do not |
For $100 (as of 2025), you can request a factory letter from the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation. This letter will confirm:
A: No, Smith & Wesson does not have a public online registry for serial number lookups. The best way to get accurate data is to use the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" or request a "Letter of Authenticity" from the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation. Forum databases maintained by SWCA members can also provide approximate ship dates. s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
The primary difference between Victory Models produced for different nations was the chambering. Guns made for the United States were chambered in .38 Special, while those destined for Britain and the Commonwealth were chambered in .38 Smith & Wesson to accommodate the British .38/200 round used in Webley and Enfield revolvers.
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The is one of the most historically significant military sidearms of World War II. Produced from 1942 to 1945, these rugged, reliable wheel-guns served Allied troops on global battlefields, guarded defense plants at home, and armed Navy pilots—including future President George H.W. Bush. You mentioned "extra quality" in your query
| Condition | Estimated Value | |---|---| | 100% (New, unfired) | $880 | | 98% (Like new) | $770 | | 95% (Minimal wear) | $660 | | 80% (Moderate wear) | $600 | | 70% (Significant wear) | $485 |
Extremely rare variations command exceptional prices. A "zero series" Victory Model Target revolver—one of only 38 produced—sold at auction for a price far exceeding standard values.
Beyond the serial number, Victory Models carry a rich array of military markings that tell the story of their service history. This letter will confirm: A: No, Smith &
Stands for "Factory Thorough Repair." This means the firearm was officially refurbished at a military arsenal (e.g., FTR MA for Lithgow in Australia). 5. Spotting "Extra Quality" and Avoiding Forgeries
It is vital to know that the Victory Model was produced in two entirely different chamberings depending on which nation ordered them. The British Service Revolver (BSR)
Use this reference table to date your revolver and verify its production run. This data is compiled from S&W factory historical letters and Roy Jinks’ records.
If your revolver’s serial number does not follow this pattern, you may be looking at a post-war commercial M&P or a cloned fake.
