Harrington and Richardson (H&R) Firearms:There is not a lot of information available about individual models of firearms that Harrington and Richardson manufactured. Harrington and Richardson manufactured reliable utilitarian low cost firearms from 1874 when they were founded, until 1986 when they ceased production, the H&R trademark was also utilized by a new company (H&R 1871, Inc.). H&R firearms were solid and durable, but plain and cheap. Even in nice condition, there is about zero collector interest in old H&R firearms. Values are well under $100, and usually under $50.00. If there is any sentimental value we recommend that they be kept as a family heirloom from the days when people owned and used guns safely and responsibly without the need for draconian government supervision to make it "safe for our kids". The exceptions to this rule are the H&R M1 Garands and H&R U.S. Model 1873 rifles. H&R made the M1 in the 1950's and these are highly collectible. They also made a replica Model 1873 rifle, which is collectible.
A good place to find answers to firearms questions is a new site called ArmsCollectors.com try posing your question on the H&R / Iver Johnson forum there.
*Note - We would strongly advise that any old firearm should be checked by a competent gunsmith both for safety and to verify the caliber before an attempts is made to fire it.
My recollection from when I managed the Olde Sacramento Armoury and Simms Hardware's Gun Department back in the 1970s, is that H&R reused serial numbers up until the 1930s... most guns had only 4 digit serial numbers. This makes it very difficult to date any particlular H&R. About the only way was comparison of your model with other H&Rs of known provenance (dates when they were first sold) and looking for minor variations. This will get you a date within five years or so but not any closer.
OH, incidentaly, since the writing of the Oldguns.net commentary, guns such as H&R have become of more interest to collectors because premium collector guns such as Colt and Smith & Wesson values have sky-rocketed. Collectors with smaller purses cannot even hope to own a fine Black Powder Colt Single Action anymore... and have turned their collecting interests to some of the more common low-end market guns of the period like Iver Johnson and Harrington & Richardson.
Just read your article on H & R Guns. Perhaps you can help me wit this. I have a H & R 32 cal. with a stamped name on the bridge, “Vest Pocket, Safety Hammer” The Patent Date is April 5, 1807, and the serial number is #4260. It is a small, chrome plated,32 cal.weapon. From the rust pattern I suspect that it shot black powder center fired cartridges.I appears to be in “good” condition. However, all of the small springs have rusted away. Any information will be appreciated. Larry Simms Parkville, Maryland