That's a model number, not a serial number. These guns did not bear serial numbers. The Stevens 38A was made in the 1940's. Value is typically around $100 in excellent condition. sales@countrygunsmith.net
None of the existing ORIGINAL guns have serial numbers.
The stevens model 335 shotgun was made from 1926-1935,with a total production of 2,000 guns made.
The model 12 Winchester pump shotgun with serial numbers from 626,997 to 651,255 where made in 1931, which your guns serial numbers fall in.
If there is no serial number, it is a 1960's model-up to 1968. In 1968 a law was passed requiring all guns to have a serial number.
Serial numbers on long guns were not required in the US until 1968, so many manufacturers did not assign them to shotguns and small-caliber rifles.
Not much in the way of serial number data on Stevens guns. Check with the customer service staff at Savage Arms- Stevens has been part of the Savage brand for nearly 100 years. http://www.savagearms.com/customer-support/
I have a 16 ga. with 28 inch Modified & Full barrels and double triggers. Don't believe these guns were serially numbered. At least I haven't found one on the guns I've looked at includind a .410. This model was made c. 1931-1948. Serial numbers were not required on long guns before 1968 so many manufacturers did not use them.
Your shotgun was made for Montgomery Ward stores by Savage/Stevens/Springfield, and is their Model 59A. This gun was made from 1934-1973. If your shotgun has no serial numbers, it was made prior to 1968. Serial numbers were not required by law on rifles and shotguns until then. Unfortunately, we can't really nail down dates for most of the "store brand" guns other than the dates that the parent model was made, as there are few public records for these guns.
no the law requiring guns to have serial numbers did not go into effect till late 60's
Most of these guns wont have a serial number as they were made from 1938 to 1947, which was before they were required on long guns.
To identify and account for otherwise identical guns.