registerd numbers

[STUPID1]

That is a registerd number on a revolver and why is it valuable? Is it like a serial number? Thanks........

 

[SaxonPig]

Are you referring to the S&W "Registered Magnums?" The original .357 was introduced in 1935 as a semi-custom revolver with many options. One of the selling features was that each gun was registered to the owner and the box included a certificate for the buyer to fill out and return to S&W thus registering that gun. Most buyers didn't bother to do it.

These pistols carry both a serial number and a separate "registration number" and maybe that's what you are hearing discussed? I know of no other "registration" associated with revolvers.

These guns are rare with around 5,000 or so made and are very expensive to buy with prices starting at $1,500 for one that is beaten, has replaced parts and is refinished to maybe $20,000 or more for a perfect example in its original box with all accessories.

Rare barrel lengths and factory engraving up the ante even more.

 

[STUPID1]

Thanks. That answerd it.

 

[Peter M. Eick]

This is what you are looking for. Here is a 1939 Registered Magnum showing the Registration number stamped in the frame of the gun. Each one is custom ordered and has a mark just like this.

If you are a collector there are 3 basic types.
1) Those that are Registered with the Factory and a certificate issued.
2) Those that are Registered but a certificate was not issued
3) Those that are not Registered but have a Registered stamped frame

You could probably subdivide it even more, but the real problem comes down to the factory records. If when you letter the gun, the factory historian can find the paperwork on your gun, or you have the certificate, then you go into #1. If not but it is a low number, say below 5000, then you go into #2. If still not, and you are a high number, then your letter says you have a "registered model", meaning they cannot be sure. Mine shown above is one of those. The difference between #1 and #3 is probably in the range of a few thousand dollars for the same gun.

If I see another low serial number and I can afford it. I will pick it off quickly! I was bummed when it turned out mine was a #3 gun.

Great shooter though. Truly amazing gun!

 

[SaxonPig]

Peter, why did you blur the reg number? What can someone do with that info? Is it a secret?

 

[Peter M. Eick]

I see no "upside" to showing the full serial number and registration number. I try to do that on all of my weapon pictures. More just a habit now then malice. I just don't see any gain to me personally.