Gun Collectors Dream Auction #83 May 2nd & 3rd TWO DAYS - NO RESERVES - 1200 LOTS!

A Lot of 178 Mixed .38 Caliber Cartridges and Spent Casings

This auction ended on May 2, 2026.

Start price: $10

Estimated price: $80 - $120

Buyer's Premium: 12%

Sold for: $10

Description

This lot consists of a collection of 178 individual .38 caliber ammunition components and live rounds, primarily intended for reloading or historical reference. The collection is organized into three plastic storage cases and one clear bag. A translucent green case contains 52 live .38 Special cartridges featuring a variety of projectile types and finishes, including both brass and nickel-plated cases. Key markings on these rounds include W-W 38 SPL, WESTERN 38 SPECIAL, 3-D 38 SPECIAL, REM-UMC 38 SPL, SPEER 38 SPL, R-P 38 SPL, and FEDERAL 38 SPL. One notable cartridge in this group is a nickel-plated case with an elongated lead projectile. Two translucent white plastic cases contain a total of 101 spent brass casings, the vast majority of which are headstamped W.R.A. CO. 38 EX., identifying them as .38 Extra Long casings. These casings have been deprimed and are organized in plastic grids. An additional clear plastic bag contains approximately 25 loose spent casings and cartridges in mixed brass and nickel finishes. The collection provides a broad sampling of mid-20th-century American ammunition manufacturers.


Condition report:

The ammunition and casings are in varied condition. The 52 live .38 Special rounds appear generally well-preserved with minor shelf wear and some dulling to the nickel-plated surfaces. The 101 spent .38 Extra Long brass casings show significant signs of age and oxidation, with many exhibiting green verdigris on the case mouths and bodies. These casings are deprimed and show typical signs of previous firing. The loose items in the plastic bag show various stages of tarnish and surface wear. The plastic storage containers are intact but show scuffing and scratches consistent with use. We have not function-tested any of the live ammunition.