This old gun needs an identity.

[Shadowrider]

That puppy be old!
ETA: if this link is correct it’s a 2nd change

SMITH & WESSON .38 Hand Ejector Model of 1905 :: Gun Values by Gun Digest

A continuation of .38 M&P Hand Ejector series. Built from 1905 to 1906. Available in 4-, 5-, 6- and 6.5-in. barrels. Finished in blue or nickel, with round or square butt. The .38-caliber serial number range 62450-73250, with about 10,800 produced. Note: Prices for the following four variations...

gunvalues.gundigest.com

 

[Snattlerake]

Is it a 5 screw?

Four on the locking plate and one in front of the trigger in the guard?

 

[WoodsCraft]

That's a M1905 first change 5.5 inch barrel

 

[Glock 'em down]

 

[Ahall]

Looks like a 5 screw K frame Smith.
Grip style is also consistent with the early guns as well.
The general form of the gun is pre WWII and it appears to be a pre model 10,
Its late enough to have the lug on the bottom of the barrel for the cylinder rod, but an early tip form on the rod.

The general form of the gun is pre WWII and it appears to be a pre model 10,
I concur, 1905 model seems right.

The 38 special round was developed in the late 1890s, so that does not help bracket the age.
Remember, should you decide to make it go bang, standard pressure 38's only.
Smith & Wesson says no +P or +P+ in the pre model 10's

The age based on serial number for S&W's are easily searched on Google.
Usually, the first characters, total number of digits and first 2 or 3 digits are all you need to bracket the age.

 

[Ready_fire_aim]

Interesting story and cool gun! It’s seems like you’ve lived multiple lives worth of experiences Dennis

 

[D'Artagnan]

How poor the finish is, I'd be concerned it would explode

 

[Hooper]

Before you Scared the fellow off, you should have asked him. No telling what kind of action the old girl has seen.
Finally made it back to American Soil.
Cool.
Glad you made it back Also.