Smith & Wesson S&W EARLY Model 39 (S/N: 1822), Blue & Black 4” DA/SA Semi-Automatic Pistol, MFD-1950’s C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,334.00
LSB#: 160617CG12
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 39
Serial Number: 1822
Year of Manufacture: According to the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 3rd Edition by Supica & Nahas Page 285, the earliest 39’s in serial numbers 1001 through c.2600, were the first shipment; no exact date is given for this shipment, though it should fall within 1956-1957.
Caliber: 9mm Parabellum
Action Type: Double Action, Semi-Automatic, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol with Decocker
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “SMITH & WESSON” with the four line Marcas Registradas, the right is marked “PATS PENDING”, the left side of the frame is marked “1822 / MODEL-39”, the right is marked with S&W’s monogram logo. The top of the barrel is marked “9MM / CTG.”. the left side of the trigger guard bow is marked “P”. The magazine floorplate is marked “S&W”.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade, integral to the slide. The rear sight is a flat top, square-notched leaf in a base that is micrometer-click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The backstrap of the grip frame is matte black alloy with checkering. The stocks are checkered walnut, with smooth upper portions and gold-colored S&W logo medallions. The stocks have a few shallow compression marks. The stocks are free of notable damages and rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Polished & Matte Blued Slide, Matte Black Alloy Grip Frame.
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharply defined. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The right side of the slide has a few wear marks and thin scuffs; the leading edges of the slide and frame have a few areas of thinning. There is light compression to some of the slide serrations on the left side, please see our pictures, this pistol looks to have been used infrequently and was well maintained in the interim. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp but for the S&W logo on the right side of the frame which has an imperfect strike. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The pistol features a magazine disconnect safety, thumb safety that doubles as a decocker and a nice slide to frame fit, with no measurable play. The double action trigger pull is smooth, single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a factory 8 round magazine that shows a few minor wear marks and some casting flaws, rating in Excellent condition with a strong spring and unmarred feed lips.
Our Assessment: From the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, page 285: “This is the first commercial 9mm double action auto manufactured in the U.S. with 927 steel frames made c. mid-1950’s but not assembled or sold until c.1966. Alloy frames were actually made after the steel frames but alloy frames were sold first and started the numbering at 1001…Few found with an alloy backstrap instead of steel.” This is serial number 1822, with 95% of its finishes remaining, a bright, sharp bore, excellent mechanics and beautiful wood stocks. This item should spark interest from collectors of S&W and automatic pistols as it is a very low serial number, has an aluminum backstrap and of course is in high condition. One factory 8-round magazine is included. Please see our pictures and good luck.
