In 1944, a tragic accident occurred aboard a US Navy ship. A loaded Victory Model was dropped, discharged, and killed a sailor. S&W immediately redesigned the internal safety mechanism.
Ensure the cylinder, barrel, and frame numbers all match. Non-matching parts significantly drop the value.
The S&W Model 38 Victory is a classic firearm, and knowing its production details can be fascinating for collectors and enthusiasts. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you lookup the serial number and some additional insights: s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
Toward the very end of production (around serial ), S&W moved the "S" to the front of the "V." If your lookup reveals an SV prefix , you have a transitional model made right as the war ended. These are rare and considered high-tier additions to any collection. Conclusion
Len stared at the screen. Then he looked down at the revolver in his hands. The extra quality wasn't a marketing term—it was a code. A secret spec for guns that had to work the first time, every time, in the dark, when the only sound was a wet thump and the faint click of a cylinder turning. In 1944, a tragic accident occurred aboard a US Navy ship
: Visible when you look directly underneath the barrel, near the ejector rod housing.
A critical step in your lookup is identifying the caliber. The Victory Model was manufactured in two distinct versions based on who was buying it. 1. The British Service Revolver (.38 S&W / .38-200) Ensure the cylinder, barrel, and frame numbers all match
Confirmed Victory Models have (mottled gray/blue) hammers and triggers. All-over blue or nickel indicates a re-finish. Re-finished = no longer extra quality.
Some older "V" prefix guns were sent back to the factory to be upgraded. These often have an "S" added as a prefix or suffix to their original serial number on the butt. U.S. Militaria Forum Lookups: What Your Serial Reveals V Prefix (Approx. V1 to V769,000): Standard WWII production (1942–1945). SV Prefix (Starting ~Jan 1945): Incorporates the improved safety hammer block. Marks of Service: "Property of U.S. Navy" "U.S. Property G.H.D."
For a definitive, specialized lookup, many owners use the Smith & Wesson Forum or, for maximum accuracy, a historical letter from the S&W Historical Foundation.