Manufactured in 1952/53. This revolver is one of two hundred forty-nine received by the Austin Police Department between 1952 and 1964, with this one being a part of the initial June 3, 1952, shipment for 110. The revolver features round blade front and frame notch rear sights. Matching serial numbers are found on the butt, cylinder and barrel shroud. A factory rework star is also found on the rear face of the cylinder with a rework date of "777" and "R-N" refinish marking. Some of the known Austin Police revolvers, such as this example, were rebarreled when they were reworked with a 6 inch barrel. It is speculated by Smith & Wesson collectors that the longer barreled revolvers were primarily used by motorcycle officers. The inside of the crane has been hand marked "G.H.", likely the initials of a previous owner. The back strap is marked "AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT 6". This early variation with the "POLICE DEPARTMENT" fully spelled out is only found on guns in the first shipment. These .38/44 Heavy Duty revolvers were ordered to replace the aging stock of .38 Military and Police revolvers the department had in stock and would remain in duty until being replaced in 1968 by the Model 27-2. The article "The Austin Police Department .38/44 Heavy Duty" by Bill Patterson states that one of the officers that helped take down Charles Whitman in the University of Texas Tower shooting was armed with one of these .38/44 Heavy Duty Revolvers.

Very fine as factory refurbished, retaining 98% plus nickel finish with scattered handling marks, slight softening of the back strap marking, and some discoloration on the trigger and hammer. Grips are fine with dings and scratches, high edge wear, and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This seldom seen revolver would make a perfect addition to any S&W or police firearm collection!