What is value of miroku 38 special liberty revolver purchased in late 1960's?

Answer 1

There were three Miroku 38 Special revolvers made between 1960 and 1984 when production finally ceased. The most common of these revolvers, and I use that term advisedly, was the Miroku Liberty Chief. The Liberty Chief was a 2" barreled, six-shot caliber 38 Special revolver using a mix of S&W and Colt styling. The closest design to the Liberty Clief was undoubtably the Colt Detective Special. Having handled a few of these revolvers (and owning a near-mint version) I can say they are remarkably well-made. After all, Miroku shotguns and rifles are universally thought to be quite well executed.

The total number of these revolvers made exceeds 160,000, only a very few of which were imported into the US in the 1964-1967 time-frame. Personally I would consider this revolver to be every bit as carefully crafted as a Colt or S&W of the same period. If you shoot your Miroku revolver, shoot only standard pressure 38 Special ammunition. After all, most of these revolvers are over 50 years old.

For a Liberty Chief in mint, new-in-the-box condition with the box, top price might be $350 - 400 is my guess. My Liberty Chief, in honest 96% condition, should bring $275 by my guess. Unfortunately, there are few people who collect these cute little unknown revolvers.