4349

S&W NO. 3 FIRST MODEL AMERICAN REVOLVER.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
S&W  NO. 3 FIRST MODEL AMERICAN REVOLVER.

Cal. 44 S&W. S# 677. Bbl. 8" having pinned semi circular blade sight. Mfg. 1870-1872; serial numbers 1 to 8000. 1,000 ordered by US Army within serial numbers of 125-2199 with "A", "P" (not on nickel models), "US" and "OWA" (grip cartouche) markings; 800 blued and 200 nickeled (including barrel latch). Nickel examples numbered 1895 to 2199 plus 4 additional examples numbered 1722, 1729, 1863 and 1868. By references this is not in the list but number 676 is. Back of grips have "A" marks near butt of each plus "677 US" on right. "Q1" matching assembly numbers on barrel, barrel latch, cylinder and lower right rear of frame under grip. Early variation of No. 3 with square butt frame, geared ejector, long ejector housing with vent hole plus non interface of hammer and barrel latch. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: sealed box of 12 "Martin" cartridges by Frankford Arsenal dated April, 1871. New sealed paper wrapped (additional clear plastic wrap added) box in unbelievable condition; extremely clear writhing and one small area of light staining. CONDITION: great example being most difficult to upgrade. Original finish (slightly cloudy) having only minimal handling marks (mostly on butt) and slight pinprick oxidation (mainly in side grooves of barrel rib); faint cylinder turn line plus light oxidation on sides of frame under grips. Bottom of barrel near muzzle has 1/8" spot of light pitting. Breech face and recoil shield have unused appearance; very minimal firing residue on cylinder face. Lock up is excellent without any perceived movement. Case colors of hammer are very good to excellent; right side best appearing and slight peppery oxidation on top of left side. Grips about very good (left best appearing); right has small chip at bottom front along with light marks on butt to include appearance of 5 small zeros plus an oval. Bore and chambers are simply near excellent with unused appearances; amazing for 150 plus years!. (01-21723/NW). ANTIQUE. $3,000-4,000.