revolver

Question
QUESTION: Hi I have a revolver I was hoping you could help me identify. I need no history or value I just want to know what it is. Its steel, it holds 5 cartridges,and is hamerless,the sn# is 48195 on the barrel the only thing legible is some letters worn off and ayole works, under that some words or letters Mass. USA. it seems to have a safety in the trigger like a glock. Thanks Dave

ANSWER: Hello Dave.
  You have an Iver Johnson Arms and Cycle Works revolver manufactured in Fitchburg, Mass. The 5 shot capacity makes it either a .32 S&W caliber or .38 S&W caliber (not .38 S&W Special). I can date it if you have more information and a picture.
  Hope this helps, and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage

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QUESTION: Thanks charles. the only other info I can tell you is Again the serial number is under the mother of pearl handles and there is a j 48195. I could text a picture to you from my phone don't know how to on PC.I bought it at auction was told it was antique didn't have to fill out any paper work. the gun also looks to be steel with no blueing.I have scoured the web to find a place I could Identify it by the numbers,but I have had no luck.  Dave

Answer
Hello Dave.
  Your revolver was termed the ' Iver Johnson Safety Automatic Revolver ' manufactured from 1896-1908. Your serial number beginning with J makes it a Second Model- Ninth Variation and places it among 33,000 others that were manufactured in 1904. It originally sold for $7.00 and add $1.50 for the mother of pearl grips.
  It does not qualify as an antique, since that category ends prior to 1899. Many make this mistake without the appropriate serial number and other identifying marks. Since you have already purchased it, you need not worry about filling out paper work. It is extremely important, however, that you not fire it! It was manufactured to fire BLACKPOWDER LOADED CARTRIDGES ONLY!!! The ammunition you can purchase today are loaded with smokeless powder, and the pressure is so much greater that it will explode the revolver!
  I hope this has informed you, not only of the history, but also of the safety factors in handling your revolver. Thank's , again. Charles Gage