Colt Army 38 Special

[Coltz.45]

Hi all. I just got a Colt Army 38 Special from my grandfather. It doesnt seem to have a serial number on it. On the top of the barrel it says Pat'd Aug 5 1884 June 5 1900 july 4 1905 and Colt's pt. f. a. mfg co. hartford ct usa. The only other markings is Colt Army 38 Special on the side of the barrel. I am trying to find any info about the history that I can. Any helpful hints. I found some dates and serial numbers on proofhouse.com.

 

[Jim Watson]

Swing out the cylinder and look on the frame under the crane, right below the barrel.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

A Colt, no matter what its age, should be serialized. However, this was not required prior to 1968.