1947 S & W 38 Terrier

Ballyroebuck · May 27, 2021

Hi everyone. Owning a few pistols and a old shotgun I also own my fathers S & W 38 Terrier.

Dad went on the Chicago Police force, class of December 1947, after military discharge following WWII spending 8 years there before becoming a Chicago fireman. My two kids are not interested in his gun, so I'm considering selling it to one who would value it. It shows very light use, the original grips are as new, and still resides in the original red box. I also have dads leather holster labeled Clark Holster, Los Angeles CALIF. What do you believe it is worth?

Dipstick · May 27, 2021

I am not an expert on gun values. I looked online and the Terrier seems to actually sell around 500ish. I saw some posted for up to 1100 that were not selling. That said, I believe this gun is priceless as it belonged to a member of your family who actually carried it as a duty weapon. As a side note, this gun shoots the earlier Smith and Wesson .38 round NOT the current .38 special. Beautiful gun!

Nibbs · May 27, 2021

Value?
IMHO: PRICELESS.

1st it is a Unique firearm, and AS an Heirloom Diamonds & Gold Pale in comparison....

That being Said,
18 months before your Pops joined the Force My Dad had just returned from the ETO,
& 9 months later I was borned, so I has an attachment to things from 1947.

Should you want to sell it I am very Interested.
It would go well w/ my S&W Model 10 from Attica Prison which was there when the Big Riots happened.
Not to mention the ONG 870 that might have been at Kent State...

...

Yet, it IS Truly an Heirloom.....

SUPER X · May 29, 2021

is it chambered for 38 SW Or 38 sw special ?

aflineman · May 30, 2021

I love me an "I" frame. Same frame as the .22 "Kit" guns. My Grandmother had one which disappeared into time. Fin shooting little handgun in .38 S&W.

STONER_63 · May 30, 2021

I have to say that if it were me, I would hang onto this piece forever. But everyone's situation is different, personally and financially. I am sure there are plenty of good folks here who would be happy to give that fine old service pistol a home, but if not please DM me.