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U.S. mkd SW No. 3 1st Model American Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,250.00 USD Estimated At:NA
U.S. mkd SW No. 3 1st Model American Revolver
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U.S. marked Smith & Wesson No. 3 First Model American Single Action Top-Break Cartridge Revolver, #2009, .44 S&W CF cal., 8'' round barrel with full-length top rib marked ''Smith & Wesson Springfield, Mass. U.S.A.'' followed by 1860, 1865, 1869 patent dates and ''US'' ahead of breech; 6-shot fluted cylinder, large front barrel hinge typical of this model, plain two-panel walnut grips. One of 1,000 ''U.S.'' marked revolvers purchased by the U.S. Army, this example having the desirable nickel-plated finish (800 were blued; only 200 were nickeled). Condition is good for this rare type, showing traces of original nickel plate, especially in protected areas. Grips are good to very good with the expected marks of military use and a small chip out at right toe. S&W Americans were famously carried by the likes of ''Buffalo Bill'' Cody and Wyatt Earp, and were known to have been used by Custer's troops at the Battle of the Little Big Horn in 1876. Initials ''I.D.'' on butt are difficult to make out, but likely belonged to the cavalry trooper to whom this gun was originally issued. Action is crisp and firm; bore is very good with sharp rifling. Est.: $2,500-$3,500. (Antique)(Joe Poyer collection)