Colt .38 Police Positive 4barrel

Question
I recently purchased this revolver in really good condition from a newspaper ad in my small town in west Georgia. O top of barrel is patent info "Colt's PTF.A. Mfg Co. Hartford, CT. USA" below this "PTD.AUG 4,1884 JUNE 5, 1900 JULY 4,1905." Hard rubber grips excellent condition. Bluing is wearing off about 20% of pistol. Ser # hand stamped under cylinder housing 103718 with "X" stamped below #. I have fired it and it is accurate and loud. Short loads 1" rim to end of tip, 3/4" brass. Now my ?'s.. How old is it and is it worth anything? (in your opinion) I will be happy to email photos if you wish. Very good condition, but I'm not a gun collector, just enjoy owning them. Thank you for your assistance and expertise.  Norman Jones


Answer
Hi Norman,

The Colt Police Positive was manufactured from 1905 to 1947 and was available in the .38 New Police and the .38 Smith and Wesson.

Yours is a pre 1924 version as Colt switched from hard rubber grips to wood in that year. Based upon the serial number I believe that it was made in 1919.

The Police Positive in "good" condition has an approximate retail value of $250 and up to $400 if in "Exc." condition.

I hope this helps Norm and thanks for the question.

Sid Lark