Question about Colt Official Police .38 S&W

[DavidB2]

i have a Colt Official Police marked 38-200 or .38 S&W. The serial # on the crane is 668991. The serial number on the butt is 12630. It als has a lanyard ring. Any idea on the year of manufacture for this revolver? How about value?

 

[DavidB2]

Just found info on Colt website that it was made in 1941. Still would like to know the value of this revolver.

 

[jmace57]

David - it all depends on condition. It likely went to Canada or the UK during WW2 and had the .38/200 markings put on it there. It could be worth between $150 and $400 depending on the condition. (My guess)

 

[Walkalong]

I recently paid $375 for this one made in 1941. Bought it on GB, no one else bid.

 

[DavidB2]

Mine is very similar to yours in condition. Shoots with great accuracy. Ammo is easily available at Midway USA. I paid $250 for it in 2012. I wondered if it went up in value. No way that I would ever sell it.

 

[dfariswheel]

The numbers on the butt are not a serial number.
On the Colt's made after 1908 the serial number is stamped on the frame just below the barrel where the crane seats. on the crane opposite the frame number, and usually inside the side plate.

Numbers on the butt on these later Colt's are someone's issue number.
Only the Colt New Army & Navy as made from 1889 to 1907 have the serial number on the bottom of the butt.

Value depends entirely on the actual condition of the finish and mechanical condition and on it being in as-made configuration and grips.
That could range from $165 in 10% original finish condition to $1,000 in 100% new.

 

[springer99]

In the average(NRA good) condition that I've seen lately, the price seems to hover around $225-275.