[mainedaughter]

I have inherited a 32 caliber Hopkins & Allen 1906 Safety Police Pistol.
It is nickel plated & engraved with pearl grips. Am I listing it in the local "swapper" or contacting an auctioneer?

 

[hrf]

Welcome to TFF.

These are not high dollar collector items and usually sell for less than $100, but the engraving and grips will add interest if original and undamaged.

This model also had a unique and odd action in which the hammer rose up clear of the firing pin after firing as a safety measure.

I imagine it would do better in an auction than in your local swap forum.

 

[mainedaughter]

This one does not have an exposed hammer. It is more like the new S&W body guards.

 

[mainedaughter]

Does low serial # have impact on price or desirablity?

 

[RJay]

Pictures would help determine the condition and aid in assessing a value. But no , in this case a low serial number doesn't really effect the value, only condition on the firearm. will.

 

[hrf]

This one does not have an exposed hammer. It is more like the new S&W body guards.

Then this must be the model you have:

http://www.gunauction.com/buy/10576...opkins-and-allen-safety-police-in-.32-s-and-w

 

[mainedaughter]

This is it

 

[mainedaughter]

Similar

 

[mainedaughter]

Apologies for the enormous picture!

 

[wonderwhippet]

Very collectible piece. Ballpark value is $500.

 

[hrf]

It appears to have a dovetailed front sight which is likely a replacement, and suggests a clearer view of the engraving, etc. is needed..

 

[mainedaughter]

My toolmaker husband (35 yrs in trade) says that the sight looks factory to him. Revolver belonged to my Grandfather, who was an Army National Guard Champion Rifle Team Member prior to WWI. Possiblity it was an award. I'm a crummy photographer but will try again tomorrow in the daylight.

 

[hrf]

Use the MACRO setting of your camera if available for closeups.

Here's one probably identical except for the sight:
http://www.prices4antiques.com/fire...-Police-MOP-Grips-Engraved-Case--D9732439.htm

Their time frame is off - 1906 patent date and H&A folded in 1915, and a prize gun fits the time period of your ancestor's competition well.

 

[mainedaughter]

Second pic is dead on ... I do see the difference in the sight... I don't know when or where Gramp got it, definitely not his style, so I can only assume it was a gift or prize; all of his trophies and medals ( NRA & Military) were kept upstairs.... never saw this revolver or the medals until after he had passed.
Taking better pictures in the morning.... Thanks!!