I just found a neat little S & W model 36-1 , 3 inch, nickel. The serial number is18XXB ( The last letter is not true) Is this a special or what ???? Bob
The same serial number is in the yoke as on the butt. I can't find any info on a serial number like that in the standard catalog of Smith & Wesson. The "Just Answer" website is B.S. They want $34.00 and do not know .
The 36-1 is listed as a 1967 3" heavy barrel with a standard all number serial number. In 1969 the serial number was changed to a "J" prefix to comply with the 1968 Gun Control Act.
In looking at the serial numbers for the late 60s J-frame guns my guess is that the last digit in your serial number was supposed to be an 8 instead of a B...
I would also go over and ask on the S&W Forums....