The Smith & Wesson Model 59: A Legend Forged in Steel
The Smith & Wesson Model 59, a cornerstone of American firearms history, continues to captivate collectors and shooting enthusiasts alike. This double-action, semi-automatic pistol, chambered in the potent nine-millimeter Luger round, represents a significant evolution in handgun design. Its introduction in the late nineteen-seventies marked a pivotal moment, bringing a higher capacity magazine to the forefront of the market. Today, the Model 59 is not just a firearm; it’s a symbol of an era and a testament to Smith & Wesson’s engineering prowess. But for those seeking to truly understand the value and significance of a Model 59, unraveling the secrets hidden within its serial number is key. This guide serves as your comprehensive resource, providing a deep dive into the world of Smith & Wesson Model 59 serial numbers. We’ll explore how to find them, decipher their meaning, and understand their impact on the gun’s history and value.
The Importance of Identifying Your Piece
Why is understanding the serial number so crucial? The serial number is more than just a random set of digits; it’s the fingerprint of your firearm. It’s the primary identifier, crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it confirms the authenticity of the gun. In a market where counterfeits and alterations exist, a correctly registered serial number is your assurance of legitimacy. Secondly, the serial number unlocks a treasure trove of information. It allows you to pinpoint the approximate manufacturing date of the pistol, providing insights into its production run and historical context. Knowing the timeframe can tell you about the manufacturing processes used. It can give you a general idea of the parts and design features of your specific firearm. Finally, the serial number is intimately connected to the value of the Model 59. Certain serial number ranges, special editions, and unique configurations can significantly impact the gun’s market worth. Knowing what to look for can save you from making a costly mistake when buying or selling. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a new enthusiast, or simply a gun owner seeking knowledge, this guide will equip you with the tools to appreciate and understand the Smith & Wesson Model 59 serial number.
Where to Discover Your Unique Identifier
Finding the serial number on your Smith & Wesson Model 59 is usually a straightforward process, but knowing where to look is the first step. The primary location is on the frame of the pistol, typically found on the underside of the frame, right in front of the trigger guard. This area is easily accessible without disassembling the gun. Another spot you might find it is on the slide, near the ejection port. Checking both areas will give you the certainty you have the right number. If you have the original box or paperwork, double-check to make sure the number on the gun matches the one listed in the documentation. This verification is an important part of confirming the authenticity of your firearm. Inspecting the serial number carefully is also important for preventing modifications or damage that might lower the value of the weapon.
Understanding the Number’s Format
The serial number on the Model 59 is not just a collection of digits; it’s a code. However, Smith & Wesson’s serial number schemes, though often consistent, can vary slightly depending on the production year and specific model variant. The Model 59, built during the years of the nineteen-seventies and nineteen-eighties, presents some specific examples of serial number formatting.
Early Production
The earliest Model 59s often started with a prefix, which would be a letter. This prefix can give insight into the year of manufacture. The serial number could be followed by a series of numbers.
Mid-Production
As production continued, the serial number schemes may have shifted to a pattern that involves a combination of letters and numbers. These numbers might indicate the chronological order of production.
Later Production
Towards the end of the Model 59’s production run, there might have been further modifications to the serial number format, perhaps involving different prefixes or serial number ranges.
It’s important to note that specific manufacturing runs can be identified from the serial number ranges, and this information might shed light on the rarity and desirability of a particular gun.
The Secrets Within: Deciphering the Number
Deciphering your Smith & Wesson Model 59 serial number is a journey of discovery. While there isn’t a single definitive source for instantly determining the manufacturing date, several resources can assist you.
Online Resources
Numerous websites and online databases maintained by gun collectors provide serial number lookup tools. These tools allow you to input your serial number and receive information about the estimated manufacturing date. Be aware that these databases are often created based on compiled data and may not be perfect.
Collector Communities
Online forums and social media groups dedicated to Smith & Wesson firearms can be invaluable. Experts and seasoned collectors often share knowledge, compare notes, and provide insights into specific serial number ranges.
Professional Appraisal
If you seek a definitive answer, consider consulting a professional firearms appraiser. They have extensive knowledge of gun history and serial number variations.
Besides the manufacturing date, a diligent examination of the serial number can yield other clues:
Production Run
The serial number sequence can place your Model 59 within a specific production run, potentially identifying any special features or modifications associated with that particular period.
Special Features
Some Model 59s were manufactured with unique features. The serial number might connect your firearm to a specific edition or run.
Originality
The presence of matching serial numbers on the frame and slide can confirm the original condition and value of your Model 59.
The serial number gives you insight into the origins of your Model 59. It offers the opportunity to trace the history of a specific gun.
Serial Numbers and Value
The serial number is inextricably linked to the value of your Smith & Wesson Model 59. Several factors influence its market worth, including:
Originality
The presence of all original parts and features can significantly boost the value of the gun.
Condition
The overall condition of the firearm, from the finish to the mechanical operation, plays a key role.
Rarity
Limited-production runs, special editions, and guns with rare features can command higher prices.
Serial Number Range
Certain serial number ranges can be considered more valuable due to their association with specific production runs or historical significance.
Certain serial number ranges may indicate lower production numbers, which can make those guns more rare. Low serial numbers are usually more valuable than higher numbers. Special editions or commemorative Model 59s can have significantly higher prices than standard models.
Warning about Alterations and Fraud
Always be cautious of guns with altered or tampered serial numbers. Alterations are illegal and can indicate a history of criminal activity. Inspect the serial number carefully for any signs of modification. Counterfeit serial numbers are also a concern, so cross-reference any information about the gun with reliable resources. If you are unsure about the authenticity of a serial number, consult a qualified firearms expert.
Resources to Deepen Your Knowledge
Several resources can help you delve deeper into the history and lore of Smith & Wesson Model 59.
Online Collector Sites
Websites and online forums dedicated to Smith & Wesson firearms offer valuable insights and resources.
Books and Publications
Numerous books detail the history of Smith & Wesson, including its various models. These publications can provide valuable background and information.
Firearms Museums and Historical Societies
Museums and historical societies with firearms collections offer an opportunity to study the Model 59 and view other examples.
Preserving the Legacy: Tips to Protect Your Investment
Proper care of your Smith & Wesson Model 59 is essential, and preserving its serial number is critical.
Gentle Cleaning
Clean the area around the serial number with a soft cloth and mild solvent. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the serial number.
Professional Inspection
Have your firearm professionally inspected regularly.
Conclusion: Embracing the Legacy
The Smith & Wesson Model 59 serial number is a key to unlocking the gun’s history and value. By understanding the serial number, collectors can deepen their knowledge of this classic firearm. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a new owner, the journey of uncovering the information within your Model 59 is a rewarding one. Embrace the knowledge and responsible gun ownership!
