3263

SMITH & WESSON NO. 3 2ND MODEL AMERICAN CUSTOM

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
SMITH & WESSON NO. 3 2ND MODEL AMERICAN CUSTOM
ENGRAVED SA REVOLVER. Cal. 44 S&W American. S# 30331. Bbl. 8" round w/ rib & semi-circular sight. Six shot cyl. Top break action. Frame, bbl. & cyl. have custom aftermarket engraving done in the original style. Engraving consists of foliate scroll w/ punch dot background w/ geometric highlights. Custom nickel finished bbl., frame & cyl. 2 piece walnut square butt grips. Mfg. 1872-74. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: letter from the Office of Smith & Wesson Revolver Manufacturers detailing the following information, "We have researched your Smith & Wesson Model 3 American Second Model, caliber .44 S&W American, revolver in company records which indicate that your handgun, with serial number 30331 was probably sold on April 16, 1874 and delivered M. W. Robinson Co., New York City, NY Smith & Wesson's largest distributor. This revolver was shipped with 8 inch barrels, nickel finish and smooth walnut grips. This shipment was for 60 units and they were in a mix of both blue and nickel finishes. It is important to note that New York City was the main hub for the firearms trade during this time period and that they supplied many dealers in the western United States. The star next to the serial number was stamped then stamped in the various places. Originally the cylinder, barrel lath, barrel and under the left grip would have been stamped with an assembly number and not the serial number. The engraving would probably be handled through Mr. Robinson Co.". CONDITION: 98% renickeled finish showing small marks. Hammer & trigger guard have faded to gray showing spots of light corrosion & faint traces of original case colors. Grips have lightly worn finish w/ scattered scratches & marks. Sound mechanics. Lightly pitted bore retains largely visible rifling. PROVENANCE: From the Collection of a Tennessee Gentleman. (01-25711/DS). ANTIQUE. $3,000-5,000.