SMITH & WESSON 36, Cal. .38 Spl.

Brief history – Smith & Wesson Model 36 "Chief’s Special"

Launched in 1950 as the “Chief’s Special”, the Model 36 was the first Smith & Wesson revolver built on the new compact J-frame platform. The name was chosen at the conference of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and in 1957, with the introduction of S&W model numbers, the gun was designated the Model 36. It is an all-steel revolver in .38 Special, with a five-shot cylinder and, in its classic configuration, a 1⅞″ barrel, and was produced with a blued or nickel-plated finish.

Condition assessment

From the photograph, the example shows:

• a very well-preserved high-polish blued finish, with fine marks and superficial scratches;

• well-defined edges, markings and S&W monogram;

• traditional wooden grips with S&W medallions, showing minimal wear;

• a pinned barrel, characteristic of early production.

The apparent cosmetic condition is rated very good to excellent, approximately 90–95%. The very glossy appearance indicates "mint", almost-new condition.

Indicative market valuation

US transactions in 2026 indicate approximately 466–530 USD for ordinary blued examples and values of 695–850 USD for very well-preserved no-dash examples, especially nickel-plated ones. Exceptional examples, practically new and complete, can exceed 1,100 USD.

On the example photographed, the finish is original and the mechanism impeccable:

• realistic value on the European market: 650–850 EUR;

• with original grips numbered to the gun: 750–900 EUR;

• with original box and documents: 850–1,050 EUR;

• recommended catalogue listing price: 895 EUR, negotiable.

The German proof marks add to the piece’s European history, but they affect its value less than the originality of the finish, the mechanical condition and matching grips.