Revolvers in the 700,000 to 1,000,000 range without a "V" prefix were produced just before the official Victory series started in April 1942. "Extra Quality" & Authentication Markers Smith & Wesson Serial Numbers
. To keep tracking simple during the war, they hit the reset button. They added a "V" prefix for "Victory" and started the numbers over at V1. A Deadly Design Flaw
If your serial number lookup reveals a revolver shipped to the UK, you will likely see markings or caliber stamps like ".38 S&W CTG" (British Service Cartridge) rather than the American ".38 S&W Special." 5. Value and Condition
Signifies the addition of a new, more reliable safety hammer block following an accidental discharge incident in 1944.