Dating an Iver Johnson revolver requires more than just a serial number; it often involves cross-referencing mechanical design with letter prefixes that the factory used to denote specific production years. Because Iver Johnson didn't use a strictly linear numbering system across all models, you must first identify your model's "variation" to find an accurate date. Where to Find the Serial Number
Databases are only as good as their human interpreters. The is the private Facebook group: Iver Johnson Collectors, History & Value . With over 5,000 members, including authors and antique gun dealers, this is where Goforth’s legacy lives on.
Based on collector Bill Goforth’s research (author of Iver Johnson Arms & Cycle Works Firearms ): Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
To further enhance the database, we suggest:
💡 Most Iver Johnson revolvers found today are "Black Powder" models (pre-1909). Firing modern "Smokeless" ammunition in these can cause the gun to explode . Dating an Iver Johnson revolver requires more than
The database categorizes guns by frame size, which dictates the caliber:
It has helped:
Scope and purpose