colt 32 police positive ptnd. 1905

Question
I would like to know how much this gun is worth it was given to my father long ago by a family friend. It was found by some railroad tracks in southeast Texas, in a little town called devers. the last pat. on the gun says July 4 1905. I am sure it is a 32, I have actually fired the gun with some shells that my father had. Everything that i can find says that 32's were not produced until 1907, so i am confused. Could this gun be a 38? Thank you very much for your time and effort on this matter, it really means a whole lot to me.

Answer
Hi Corbett,

The Colt Police Positive is externally the same as the Colt New Police Model. The New Police and the Positive were of the same design and available in .32Colt, and .38 S&W, The barrel lengths available were 2.5", 4", and 6". The finishes were blued or nickel plated.

The Police Positive had a positive lock feature and was produced from 1905 to 1947. In "good" condition the approximate retail value would be around $250 to $300.

As for caliber, since I cannot inspect it I can only advise you of the caliber availability and as you can see, it was chambered for both the .32 and .38S&W. That said and based upon on your observations and the fact that you have chambered/fired the .32, I'd say that you are probably correct in your assumption.

If you want to be 100% sure I recommend that you have a qualified gunsmith inspect the gun personally and advise you of its condition, caliber etc.

Thanks for the question Corbett.
Sid Lark