Frequently found on solid-frame models like the Model 1900.
Since a searchable online "database" doesn't exist in the modern sense, collectors use specific physical design changes to narrow down the manufacture date. 1. Identification by Model (The "Safety Automatic")
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.
that define the three major "Models" of the Safety Automatic line. Step 1: Locate the Full Serial Number The number on the bottom of the trigger guard butt of the frame Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
Unlike many modern firearms, the serial number you see at a glance on an Iver Johnson is often not the complete story. Many models, especially the top-break "Safety Automatic" revolvers, have multiple numbers stamped on them.
Open the database.
where you can simply type a serial number and instantly get the full history of an Iver Johnson revolver. Most of the company’s original production records were lost, destroyed, or never systematically digitized. Frequently found on solid-frame models like the Model 1900
For a quick, searchable, no-nonsense digital tool, hosts one of the best online Iver Johnson serial number databases. While not as granular as Goforth’s books, it covers the most popular models.
If the serial number is worn, look for these physical clues:
Iver Johnson used a system of letter prefixes to indicate the decade and specific year of production. Prefix Type Production Era 1909 – 1919 Generally Third Model "Smokeless" frames. Single Letter 1920 – 1929 E.g., Prefix "C" often indicates 1926. Two Letters 1930 – 1939 Used for later production Safety Automatic models. All Letters 1940 – 1950 Identification by Model (The "Safety Automatic") No, you
Often indicates 1920s production (e.g., C = 1926) .
If you have found the letter prefix under the grip, you can estimate the year of manufacture.