Smith & Wesson .38 Victory Model was produced during WWII (1942–1945) as a variation of the Military & Police (Model 10). Serial numbers for this model are uniquely identified by a . Where to Find the Serial Number
Here is a detailed look at the Victory Model, how to decode its serial numbers, and what makes an example "extra quality." s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
Victory Models left the factory with grips (no checkering) for most of the war. Later 1945 models had checkered commercial style. Cracks, chips, or incorrect medallions (silver instead of unmarked) degrade quality. Smith & Wesson
Because S&W used overlapping serial numbers before the 1980s, there is no official automated online database for lookups. Collectors rely on resources like the S&W Historical Foundation or the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" to narrow down dates. "Extra Quality" and Marking Variations Later 1945 models had checkered commercial style