S W 38 Victory Model Serial Number Lookup Extra Quality Jun 2026

If the cylinder face shows “BNP” (Birmingham Nitro Proof) and “.767” (metric bore diameter), it’s a Lend-Lease gun. These are common, but extra quality requires matching numbers under the star extractor.

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)

Rare markings indicating direct assignment to the US Navy or US Coast Guard. Summary Checklist for Collectors Standard Grade Extra Quality / Premium Grade Serial Numbers Mixed or mismatched parts 100% matching on frame, cylinder, and barrel Safety Type Standard "V" Prefix "SV" Prefix with rare transitional hammer block Markings Faint or worn down stamps Crisp "U.S. Property" or rare "USN" stamps Grips Replacement plastic or rubber Original, unnumbered, smooth walnut grips Finish Worn bare metal or civilian re-blue Original sandblast phosphate finish (over 80% intact) s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality

Stamped on the frame, cylinder, and barrel, indicating proof-firing. British and Commonwealth Markings

To preserve your Victory Model's value:

Victory production began in when standard serial numbers for the Military & Police model exceeded 1,000,000. S&W introduced the "V" prefix and restarted the count. Smith & Wesson Serial Numbers

The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson provides the definitive general range for Victory Models: . A full breakdown is shown in the table below: If the cylinder face shows “BNP” (Birmingham Nitro

Look up the serial number on a Smith & Wesson .38 Victory Model, and you find a date. By using the range tables, understanding the factory markings, and checking the details in this guide, you can understand its history, its value, and its legacy. From the battlefields of Europe to the islands of the Pacific, the Victory Model served with distinction. When you hold a clean, all-matching, original-condition example, you are holding a piece of living history—that is the ultimate "extra quality."

: Stamped on the rear face of the cylinder. The Victory Model was manufactured in two distinct

Stands for "Factory Thorough Repair." This means the firearm was officially refurbished at a military arsenal (e.g., FTR MA for Lithgow in Australia). 5. Spotting "Extra Quality" and Avoiding Forgeries