No Model Number on my S&W

[RevolverJockey]

I was cleaning my 617 this weekend and noticed that there is not a model number under the crane, is this normal? The serial number is there, just no "617-??" I assume my FFL transferred it based on the information on the factory box - anyone ever see this?

Lee

[Wilson]

S&W started stamping model numbers around 1955 or so. If it doesn't have a model number,it's too old to be stainless.

Is it a semi-matte nickel finish?

The pre-model number gun would be a K-22 Masterpiece. Some people call them Pre-17's.

If you send me the serial# on the butt, I can give you the year of manufacture.

Edited June 2, 2013 by Wilson

[cuzinvinny]

Every once in a great while S&W forgets to mark the frame with a model number or they stamp an an incorrect model number on the frame. If you run a search on the Smith & Wesson forum you can find a number of threads where people ask about the missing model numbers on their guns. One of the most recent that I recall was a model 29 or 629 with the barrel stamped "44 magnum" while the frame was stamped 57 or 657, I forget which.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1961-1980/93921-question-non-model-marked-highway-patrolman.html

Edited June 3, 2013 by cuzinvinny

[Wilson]

You are correct. Nothing is absolute with S&W. I've seen a few that were mis-stamped.

Unlike coins or stamps, there's no additional collector value.

I saw a matte-nickel Model 17 that looked like stainless. Looked great. However,the guy wanted way too much for it.