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May 16, 2014
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Sorry to say, I'm not a DW aficionado. I stumbled on this model 12 many years ago, just now got curious about it, mainly because someone made me an offer for it and I have no idea what it's worth. I can't even find the SN, unless it's that three-digit number on the grip tang. It has three barrels (2-1/2, 4, 6). The wrench is with it but the original box and grips are gone and it has a Hogue grip on it now. Any info appreciated.
May 16, 2014
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Ok, so that three-digit number on the tank is indeed SN, 20X. And I'm guessing the W12s were made from 1970-1973, no? I found a post on another site of a 1970 with SN 96, but I don't know how many were sold so I can't say what year mine might be. And the W12 is considered a "small" frame, with a square tang where the large frame models had/have a round tang?
I've found both stock grips and the walnut (?) blank. I have the stock barrel tool, but I don't have the feeler gauge or the oem box the pack came in (or the belt buckle or whatever that is in the few pix of this model I've found on the web).
The gun's definitely been used, bluing worn, holster wear on the 6" barrel. The cylinder latch seems stiff.
How'm I doin' so far?
April 28, 2014
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Welcome. I'm far from a Dan expert, but looking at the serial number I'd say it could be anywhere from 69 to 71. Yes, small frame. I don't think anyone is ignoring you.. traffic is pretty light on this site. 
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Dans Club
March 25, 2013
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The serial number is on the frame under the crane I believe. IMO, the gun is worth between $250 and 350 with one barrel and one grip depending on the condition. Extra barrel assemblies about 150 each. if it is a twelve sided tool and your gun has the exterior nut add $30 and 30 for the extra grip. Throw the Hogue in free. The wood blank is a bonus. Not to many left. Add $40. $600-700 Is a guess. Mod. 12's were made from late 69 to 71. Towards the end of 71 they had the concealed barrel nut. Shoot it, you may gain an appreciation for all things Dan Wesson.Later model 15-2 is much improved in looks and small changes in engineering but the 12 is extraordinarily accurate.
May 16, 2014
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Thanks much, Ole Dog. I wasn't feeling slighted, just having fun finding stuff out once my interest was piqued.
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Range Officers
Dans Club
March 27, 2009
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The serial number can be under the crane or on the grip tang! Show us some pics of this 12 some of us like them porkchops!
May 16, 2014
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I've sold the 12, thanks in large part to the advice I got here. Thanks to you all. Happy shooting!
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Moderators
January 24, 2009
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Powderburn said
I found a post on another site of a 1970 with SN 96, but...
If you found #96, then his twin brother #97 should have been right there with him!
The serial numbers were indeed stamped into the grip tang originally. A few months into production, they decided to move the S/N to the frame, under the crane. And of course, the next move was to the outside of the frame, in full view.
The original PP's looked like this (the buckle came along much later)...
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