S W 38 Victory Model Serial Number Lookup Extra Quality -

.38 Special versions (U.S. issue) are generally more desirable to American collectors than .38 S&W (British/Commonwealth) examples, partly due to ammunition availability.

Revolvers with matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and original grips are significantly more valuable than mismatched examples.

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:

Smith & Wesson produced approximately 842,000 Victory models between 1942 and 1945. Use this breakdown to locate your revolver's approximate manufacturing window: s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality

The Smith & Wesson Victory Model is one of the most historically significant firearms to emerge from World War II. With over 850,000 revolvers produced between 1942 and 1945, this wartime variant of the classic Military & Police revolver served American, British, and Commonwealth forces in every theater of the war. For collectors and history enthusiasts, the ability to perform a is essential for authenticating these iconic firearms. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about Victory Model serial numbers, from basic identification to advanced collector resources.

Before searching the database, you must find the serial number in its primary location. On a true Victory Model, the serial number is located on the .

Stamped on the frame, cylinder, and barrel, indicating proof-firing. British and Commonwealth Markings The most authoritative source for S&W history is

"Extra quality" usually refers to the preservation of the original phosphate finish. Many were "re-blued" post-war for civilian use; an original dull finish significantly increases value.

A crucial chapter in Victory Model history involves the post-1944 safety upgrade. After a sailor was killed when his revolver discharged upon being dropped, the Navy requested a redesigned hammer-block safety. S&W engineer Harry Howland developed a more robust transverse-mounted hammer block that prevented firing unless the trigger was deliberately pulled.

A: Yes. All S&W revolvers with a "V" prefix in their serial number are, by definition, Victory Models produced between 1942 and 1945. However, "pre-Victory" models exist in the 800,000-999,999 serial number range. Be aware that some guns with a "V" prefix may have been chambered in .38 S&W for the British Commonwealth, not .38 Special. With over 850,000 revolvers produced between 1942 and

The Smith & Wesson Victory Model is a definitive piece of military history. Produced during World War II, these revolvers served Allied forces across the globe. Today, they are highly prized by collectors.

A "collector grade" Victory Model should have a smooth, matte sandblasted finish (Midnight Black or Parkerized) and plain walnut grips.

In 1944, a sailor was killed when a dropped Victory Model discharged. S&W redesigned the safety. Models with the "VS" prefix are often considered safer for shooters and highly desirable for those interested in the evolution of firearm safety.