V1 – V769,000 (WWII production) 1948 to 1967 ("C" Prefix): C1 – C999,999 1968 to 1977 ("D" Prefix): D1 – D999,999 1977 to 1980 ("2D" to "9D" Prefix): 2D00001 – 9D99999 Early J-Frame (Chiefs Special, Model 36, 60, etc.) 1950 to 1969: 1 – 786,544 1969 to 1980 ("R" Prefix): R1 – R300,000
While not comprehensive, certain prefixes can give you a rough era: Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation smith and wesson revolver serial numbers database
Let’s say you have a revolver with the serial number on the butt. It appears to be a .38 Special, 4-inch barrel, fixed sights. You want to date it. V1 – V769,000 (WWII production) 1948 to 1967
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. This public link is valid for 7 days
Smith & Wesson now maintains digital production records from the 1980s onward. The S&W Historical Foundation is actively digitizing older ledgers. In the future, we may see:
On modern S&W revolvers, the official serial number is stamped on the . However, for a definitive match, you must check: