Serial numbers ended at 125000 in 1957 and started at 295000 in 1962 so yours falls between 1957 and 1962.model 36, no dash, 138XXX
The 2nd edition puts the marking of the model number in 1957 at serial 125000 and notes a change at 295000 in 1962. I'd like to know for sure whether 138XXX is 50+ years old and was wondering if the 3rd edition or some other reference could help.
K477XX = 1948.This is my only handgun and I just dug it out of an old footlocker. The serial number is k-477xx and they match on frame and cylinder. The frame also has the following id marks in three separate rows.
I have seen much talk of 5 screw frames, but, this one only has 4 that I can see.
5 screw = 4 screws on the side plate and 1 on the upper front of the trigger guard.
K-22's are very desirable so unless the corrosion is pretty bad it would still be worth at least $400.
1980.S&W MODEL 36
J7500XX
Jim