Smith & Wesson Victory Model .38 Special 4” Revolver U.S. Navy Marked C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,151.00
LSB#: LSB250608WJ035
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Victory Model (Military & Police)
Serial Number: V261943
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1943–1944, WWII Production
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action (DA/SA) Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder, 6-Shot
Barrel Length: 4” Round, Pinned
Markings:
The left side of the barrel is marked “Smith & Wesson.” The top of the barrel is marked with the two-line Springfield address and patent dates. The top strap is roll-marked “U.S. NAVY.” The right side of the barrel is marked “.38 S.&W. Special CTG.” The right side of the frame is marked “MADE IN U.S.A.,” and the sideplate has the Smith & Wesson monogram. The butt is marked with a flaming ordnance bomb followed by “V261943,” and retains its lanyard loop. The barrel flat and rear cylinder face are matching, both numbered “261943” with the “V” prefix. The inside of the right grip panel is likewise numbered to match, confirming originality.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half-moon blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are wartime checkered walnut service stocks, correctly numbered to the revolver. They show handling wear, light dings, and edge marks, but remain sound with a solid fit to the frame.
Finish: The revolver retains its dark wartime finish, consistent with the so-called “Black Magic” sandblast blue applied to late-production Victory Models. While some may interpret the finish as Parkerizing, the tone and surface preparation here align with the Black Magic treatment rather than the crystalline look of phosphate Parkerizing. The hammer and trigger retain original case-hardening.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with strong rifling. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its original finish. The Black Magic treatment shows thinning at the muzzle and on high edges of the cylinder, as well as scattered handling marks and surface scratches from honest service use. A light but distinct turn line is visible on the cylinder. The lanyard ring shows some muted finish consistent with use. Screw heads are serviceable with only minor tool marks. Overall, the revolver shows typical naval service wear but remains mechanically solid and original.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double action is smooth, and the single action is crisp. The cylinder locks up tightly with minimal play, and the timing is correct. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson Victory Model served as one of the most widely issued sidearms of World War II, filling the gap when 1911 pistols could not be produced fast enough. While many went overseas under Lend-Lease chambered in .38 S&W, this example is chambered in .38 Special and bears the desirable “U.S. NAVY” top strap marking, indicating direct issue to American naval forces. These Navy-marked Victories are significantly scarcer than their Army or Lend-Lease counterparts and are highly sought after by military collectors.
This revolver wears the distinctive late-war “Black Magic” sandblast blue finish, which collectors often debate versus Parkerizing. Its dark, matte-black tone is consistent with the Black Magic treatment, while the matching serials across the frame, barrel, cylinder, and even the right grip panel confirm originality. The case-colored hammer and trigger further speak to its untouched wartime configuration.
For the collector of U.S. martial arms, this revolver represents an especially desirable Victory Model variant: a Navy-marked, matching-numbers gun with a scarce original finish. It is both a piece of World War II history and a solid representative of the revolvers carried aboard U.S. naval vessels during the conflict. With its originality and strong bore, it will make a fine addition to any serious collection. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the rifle in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
