Serial numbers V200,000 to V769,000. Features the standard dull gray Midnight Black or standard phosphate (Parkerized) finish to speed up production.
For an official factory record, owners can request a History Letter from the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation , which verifies the exact shipping date and recipient. 3. Evaluating "Extra Quality" and Collector Value
Len entered his full serial: .
The prefix on the butt of the frame dictates the exact era and engineering specification of your Victory model. s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
Performing a complete involves multiple methods, ranging from simple online searches to advanced collector databases. Here is the systematic approach:
If you are researching a serial number to buy or sell a Victory Model, watch out for these factors that heavily influence valuation:
The Model 38 Victory was produced with a 5-inch barrel and a 6-shot cylinder. It features a blued finish, with a rounded butt and a smooth grip. The revolver was designed for military and law enforcement use, and many were issued to police departments and military units during World War II. Serial numbers V200,000 to V769,000
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The is one of the most historically significant military sidearms of World War II. Produced from 1942 to 1945, these rugged, reliable wheel-guns served Allied troops on global battlefields, guarded defense plants at home, and armed Navy pilots—including future President George H.W. Bush.
: Stands for "Factory Thoroughbred Repair." This indicates the revolver was refurbished at a British or Australian arsenal post-war. guarded defense plants at home
Recent private sales reflect these ranges. In April 2026, a used Victory Model chambered in .38 S&W was listed for $650 in Rugby, North Dakota. A .38 Special U.S. Navy Victory Model with 4-inch barrel, Parkerized finish, and lanyard ring sold at auction for a comparable price.
The serial number range for the S&W Model 38 Victory is between V300 and V100000 (V prefix). These serial numbers were stamped on the frame, cylinder, and barrel of the revolver.
: Ensure the serial number on the bottom of the barrel and the cylinder face match the frame butt perfectly. Non-matching parts drop collector value by 30% to 50%.