Dating an Iver Johnson revolver is often difficult because the original factory records were destroyed in a fire
The letter prefix is the "secret code" for the year of manufacture. While specialized reference books like W.E. Goforth’s Iver Johnson Arms & Cycle Works 1871-1993
Early models or specific utility lines often have numbers stamped here.
The most common location for early top-break models. Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
No, you cannot call a customer service hotline at Iver Johnson to ask about your revolver. The factory is silent. But thanks to decades of obsessive hobbyist work—specifically the unparalleled database of Bill Goforth, supported by online communities and reference sites like Proofhouse—you have access to the available to mankind.
Dating an Iver Johnson revolver requires more than just a serial number; it often involves cross-referencing mechanical design with letter prefixes that the factory used to denote specific production years. Because Iver Johnson didn't use a strictly linear numbering system across all models, you must first identify your model's "variation" to find an accurate date. Where to Find the Serial Number
are the gold standard, you can use these general rules of thumb: Prefix Type Estimated Production Era 1909 – 1919 (or pre-1894 for Model 1) Single Letter 1920 – 1929 Two Letters 1930 – 1939 All Letters 1940 – 1950 3. The "Smokeless" Powder Cutoff Dating an Iver Johnson revolver is often difficult
: Despite structural upgrades, these frames are not rated for smokeless powder . 3. Third Model (1909–1941)
When using an Iver Johnson revolver serial number database, keep the following tips and precautions in mind:
Goforth spent decades cross-referencing factory order books, period catalogs, warranty cards, and surviving physical records. His database is broken down by: The most common location for early top-break models
While the Iver Johnson Arms Company Serial Number Database is an excellent resource, there are other reliable sources you can use:
The "Safety Automatic" top-break models are the most common Iver Johnson revolvers found today. They are divided into three distinct generations. Identifying the generation is the first step to unlocking the serial number database. First Model (1894–1896)
A high-quality Iver Johnson revolver serial number database provides a to determine the manufacturing period and whether the firearm is designed for black powder or modern smokeless powder. Key Database Features
Older models produced around the turn of the 20th century were often designed specifically for black powder. Using modern smokeless ammunition in firearms not designed for those pressures can result in catastrophic equipment failure and severe injury.
Often lack a prefix and have a specific frame design.