S&W Model 3 Russian 3rd model Question

[ncblksmth1]

I have a S&W Model 3 Russian 3rd model serialed 504xx has a star above the lanyard swivel and a small P under it.

Question: What does the Star and the P mean?

Thanks in advance

Bob C.

[RCS]

The star on the butt indicates some type of factory repair or refinishing of the revolver. This started around the early 1900's until the early 1950's, this was done to prevent selling the revolver as new. There could date stamp showing when the work was performed under the grip

[ncblksmth1]

The only stamping under the grip is the assembly number on the right side of the butt around the index pin for the grips.

Thanks
Bob.

[da gimp]

I'd dern sure spend the money & get a S&W factory letter on this................. A non-factory refinish on most good firearms substantially hurts their value.. A refinish by Smith and Wesson will not hurt nearly as much & some collectors might care little about it.

Check over on the smith&wessonforums.com, on the appropriate board...............& post plenty of good pix with it..... Roy Jinx & Lee Jarret both hang out there, (the two top experts on all things S&W) along with a buncha nice guys. good luck sir & congrats on picking up a nice piece.. heck post photos here too.