CFA CFA Manufacturer & Proof Marks 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of researching a firearm's serial number during a CFA appraisal?

Accepted Answer

To establish the approximate year of manufacture and verify originality

Answer

Serial number research allows an appraiser to establish the approximate year of manufacture, verify authenticity, and confirm the firearm matches its represented specifications.

Question 2

Winchester Model 1894 lever-action production began in what year, corresponding to the first serial numbers issued?

Accepted Answer

1894

Answer

Winchester Model 1894 production began in 1894 with the earliest serial numbers, making the model name itself a reliable indicator of its introduction year.

Question 3

Colt's internal date letter coding system used from 1921 to 1970 allowed appraisers to determine what?

Accepted Answer

The exact manufacturing year by decoding letters stamped on internal parts

Answer

Colt used an internal date letter system on hidden components that, when decoded, reveals the exact year and sometimes month of manufacture for firearms produced between 1921 and 1970.

Question 4

On Smith & Wesson revolvers, the 'dash number' following the model number (e.g., Model 10-8) indicates what?

Accepted Answer

A design change or engineering revision

Answer

Smith & Wesson's dash numbers indicate engineering change revisions, with higher numbers representing later design updates to the same basic model.

Question 5

What does the difference between a 'two-line' and 'three-line' barrel address on a Colt Single Action Army revolver indicate to an appraiser?

Accepted Answer

Different production eras that affect collectibility and value

Answer

Colt SAA barrel address variations indicate different production periods, which significantly affects collector interest and appraised value for these highly sought revolvers.

CFA Practice Test

CFA Practice Test

CFA CFA Manufacturer & Proof Marks 2