Sometimes located beneath the left grip panel.
: Third Model smokeless revolvers usually have the 1900, 1901, 1904, and 1907 patent dates stamped on the bottom strap.
The mystery solved. Not murder. Not espionage. Just a workingman’s tool, passed down, then hidden, then found again.
| Resource | Type | Strength | |----------|------|-----------| | Goforth’s book / serial charts | Printed/PDF | Most complete known data | | Iver Johnson Forum (Firearms Forum) | Online discussion | Real owner data points | | Gun Values Board (Iver Johnson section) | Online | Active collectors | | YouTube (dating guides) | Video | Visual identification help | | Auction archives (Rock Island, Gunbroker) | Database | Compare serials of sold guns | Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
The most critical reason to date your revolver is to know if it's safe to shoot. Early Iver Johnsons were built for .
User interface & search features
An Iver Johnson revolver serial number database is a comprehensive collection of serial numbers and corresponding information about Iver Johnson revolvers. These databases aim to provide a reliable source for firearms enthusiasts to research and verify the authenticity and specifications of their Iver Johnson revolvers. Sometimes located beneath the left grip panel
While the Iver Johnson Arms Company Serial Number Database is an excellent resource, there are other reliable sources you can use:
: Still designed for black powder. Do not shoot modern smokeless powder in these.
: No letter prefixes on the bottom of the frame for the first two years. Second Model (1897–1908) Not murder
Open the action and look under the top strap.
| Letter | Meaning | What You Do | |--------|---------|--------------| | | Barrel Markings | Record the top-latch patent dates (e.g., “Pat. Apr. 6. 86, Feb. 15. 87…”). | | E | Era Frame | Hammer the hammer? Oval trigger guard? Round vs. square butt? | | S | Serial Number | Locate it (under the grip panel, on the trigger guard, or front strap). | | T | Type & Caliber | .32 S&W, .38 S&W, .22 LR? Safety Hammerless or Large Frame? |