: Models made before 1909 have leaf springs. Post-1909 models use coil springs and are safe for modern low-pressure smokeless rounds.
Attribution, licensing & community contributions
However, the best database isn't a government website; it is a collective, community-sourced effort built by dedicated historians like and the members of the Iver Johnson Collectors Association . Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
| | Use this database... | | --- | --- | | The most accurate, scholarly year | Bill Goforth’s tables (via Internet Archive or PDF) | | A quick online lookup without downloading | Proofhouse.com | | Real human help with photos | Iver Johnson Collectors Facebook Group | | To see what others own with similar serials | GunValuesBoard.com | | Parts and repair instructions | Numrich Gun Parts (serial number helps ID the exact model) |
Before looking up a number, you must locate it. Iver Johnson stamped serial numbers in a few key places, depending on the model and era: : Models made before 1909 have leaf springs
Help identifying an Iver Johnson revolver - Northwest Firearms
Similar to the first model but with minor design improvements to the action. Third Model Safety Automatic (1909–1941) | | Use this database
To build an accurate historical database for your specific firearm, you must look beyond the numeric stamping and examine physical features like Step 1: Locate Every Hidden Serial Number