Iver Johnson Revolver — Serial Number Database Best |best|

The "true" serial number is often stamped on the left side of the frame .

For a free, interactive lookup, the is your next best option. The most active and knowledgeable community resides on The Firearms Forum . In their "Iver Johnson" sub-forum, you'll find collectors and experts who can often provide an exact year of manufacture if you post a clear photo of the revolver and the true serial number from under the left grip.

If your Iver Johnson is a single-shot Champion shotgun, the dating method is different but even simpler. There is no need for a letter prefix. The format of the serial number itself tells you the decade of production. This system is widely accepted and originated with Bill Goforth. Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST

You must first determine which "Model" you have to know which serial database to use. Production Years Key Features Propellant First Model 1894–1895 Single top-post latch; owl on grip faces the barrel. Black Powder only. Second Model 1896–1908 Double top-post latch; owl faces the barrel. Black Powder only. Third Model 1909–1941

Often indicates the very early 1896 production or specific variations. Roughly corresponds to 1897, 1898, and 1899. Used for runs in 1898, 1899, and 1902. Indicates the 1906 manufacturing run (~100,000 guns). Third Model (Smokeless Powder) The Third Model (1909–1941) is the most common. If the owl faces the shooter , use these prefixes: The "true" serial number is often stamped on

: Four patent dates stamped on the bottom of the grip frame. The hammer style changed, and the internal springs switched from leaf springs to coil springs.

Here are three ways to check:

: Plainly numeric, containing no letter prefix .