S&W Model 59 (nickel) and Model 629 Classic

SierraCharlie

What is the definitive or most common reference for determining a handgun's value? I have two pistols that I would like to put up for sale and I would like to know what a fair price would be for each. My S&W Model 59 is all original, including its pair of high-capacity magazines, and its nickel finish is beautiful. I have the original box and contents (three S&W pamphlets). My S&W Model 629 Classic with 9-in barrel is also all original. Its stainless finish is in superb shape. I've fired three boxes of ammo through it, including a whole box while "seasoning" the barrell. I've kept both of these guns clean.

AntiqueDr

The definitive reference is, of course, the marketplace. Regardless of books, an object is worth precisely what someone is willing to pay and not one penny more (or less). I would search the various auction sites and gun-sale publications and get an idea of what guns actually are selling at - remember that selling price and asking price are often two very different numbers.

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JudgeColt

Put them both on the auction and see what they bring. While the M59 was a pioneer in that it was the first double action, double stack pistol in the world, the early Smith pistols did not have the best reputations (mostly undeserved in my opinion) so they are not hot sellers. I have a modest collection of early Smith autos and might be interested in your M59 if you are going to sell it. How early is it? (Approximate serial number range would be helpful.) Is it a "pure" M59, or does it have a "dash number" after the M59?A M629 with a 9-inch barrel might be a different story. I have never heard of a M629 with a 9-inch barrel. Is that a Performance Center model I have missed, or is the barrel really the common 8 3/8-inch barrel?

SierraCharlie

I've heard some very good advice here. I expected someone to say I should watch some auctions, which I'm doing. A couple I stumbled across last night when I began this endeavor: *************** and GunBroker.Com. Any others I should monitor? I misstated the barrel length of my -629. It's actually 6-1/2 in. I purchased it while I was in Alaska doing a lot of off-pavement hiking and running. Kept it loaded for bear--literally--though I never had to put an aggressive bear or moose in my sights. The -59's serial number is A607713. I purchased it while I was in flight school in South Texas with the Navy. I used it to go plinking, and since then for home defense. While I've got your attention...where would I have the best look finding a good deal on a German-made Walther PPK in good condition? I've handled one that a friend has and found it to be very comfortable in my slightly small hands. I tend to gravitate toward the finer crafted things, as you might have guessed.

JudgeColt

Your M59 is a very late one. E-mail me at judgecolt45@hotmail.com and tell me what you have to have out of it. Perhaps we can deal. As far as a Walther, search the auction sites for PPK, etc.. If you like the finer things, perhaps we can work a deal on a Seecamp LWS 32 I have.The barrel length on your M629 is the most common, but also very popular. It should sell. Be sure and list the "dash number" when listing your M629. That is very important information to have for a potential buyer.

Boomerang

JC - Is there a preferred "-" number? I prefer the models with the firing pin on the hammer. Are there certain dash numbers to stay away from? This has me puzzled.Boomer

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nmyers@home.com

The online sites you are checking are a good way to determine market trends and sale prices. You might also check the Gun List and Shotgun News newspapers in your search for a PPK. If you add your email address to your profile on this site, you may even get an offer from a forum reader.Incidentally, while the stories you related about where you bought your guns and how often they were cleaned may be interesting to some people, they are of no value when trying to evaluate or sell guns. It's more important to describe the exact percentage of finish, wear, alterations, damage, and packaging (which you have already done).Neal

JudgeColt

The preferred dash number is "no dash" at all. The "no dash" guns are pinned and recessed, and command a sizable premium. For more information, check out the excellent article by John Taffin at www.sixguns.com/range/SmithWesson44Mag.htm. That article details the changes that make up the dash numbers. I just tried the link above and it does not work. I went to the site and tried to copy the site address again. It is: http://www.sixguns.com/range/SmithWesson44Mag.htm] http://www.sixguns.com/range/SmithWesson44Mag.htm It looks the same to me, but I am trying it this time without the period at the end. (My junior high grammer teacher may be watching from that big classroom in the sky. Sorry Miss Black.)[This message has been edited by JudgeColt (edited 11-12-2001).]It works! It must have been the period at the end. I should know better, but I had that grammer drilled into me so much that I cannot bring myself to use incorrect grammer or punctuation.[This message has been edited by JudgeColt (edited 11-12-2001).]Now it did not work again. Somehow, the site included the phrase ahead of the address. I shall try to separate the two, and enter it again here. http://www.sixguns.com/range/SmithWesson44Mag.htm I have no idea what I am doing, so I hope it works this time. [This message has been edited by JudgeColt (edited 11-12-2001).]

SierraCharlie

My e-mail: sbcraig@hotmail.com. Please define dash number for the uninitiated. Uh oh. Is "seasoning" a barrell a no-no? An impossibility and a waste of time, effort and ammo? It took me hours to do. And I was quite scared the authorities would find me on that Sunday afternoon behind a school in very rural Kenai, Alaska, squeezing off six rounds, cleaning like mad and lightly oiling, emptying the cylinder again,.... I got the idea from a gun enthusiasts magazine at the time.