S W 38 Victory Model Serial Number Lookup Extra Quality __top__ -
: The official mark of British Government property.
The model earned its nickname from the "V" (Victory) prefix added to its serial numbers, starting in April 1942. This single letter marked a new era for the company and the creation of a collectible icon.
Smith & Wesson .38 Victory Model was produced during WWII (1942–1945) as a variation of the Military & Police (Model 10). Serial numbers for this model are uniquely identified by a . Where to Find the Serial Number s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
Serial numbers V200,000 to V769,000. Features the standard dull gray Midnight Black or standard phosphate (Parkerized) finish to speed up production.
Following a high-profile accidental discharge incident in 1944, S&W introduced a new hammer block safety. Revolvers produced with this safety (or retrofitted) feature a "VS" prefix or an "S" stamped near the V on the butt. 3. Serial Number Ranges & Production Dates : The official mark of British Government property
If a standard "V" prefix gun has an extra "S" stamped near the serial number or on the side plate, it indicates the revolver was factory-retrofitted with the new safety block. 2. Dating by Serial Range (Approximate)
: This is the only official serial number of record. It is stamped directly into the metal on the bottom of the grip frame, often next to a lanyard swivel. Smith & Wesson
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Chambered for the .38 S&W cartridge (known by the British as .38-200).
⚠️ It is common for the "V" prefix to be missing from these secondary locations (stamped only as "123456"). Do not mistake this for a mismatch; it is a known wartime expedient. It is also vital to know that numbers stamped on the yoke (the crane) are assembly numbers , not serial numbers, and will not match the gun's legal serial.