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Smith & Wesson First Model American Revolver with 101 Ranch Association Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:750.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 3,000.00 USD
Smith & Wesson First Model American Revolver with 101 Ranch Association Letter
This revolver features a pinned blade front and notch rear sights. The top of the rib is marked "+SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JULY 10. 60. JAN. 17. FEB. 17 JULY 11. 65 & AUG. 24. 69+". The latch is numbered "562" as is the rear face of the cylinder. The serial number "5400" is marked on the butt. Fitted with smooth walnut grips marked "101/Ranch/IT" on the inside of the left panel and "JOHN W/CARLSON" on the inside of the right panel. Included with the revolver is a letter dated the 12th of March, 1969 explaining that the authors mother had married John W. Carlson who was a cousin of the Miller brothers of 101 Ranch fame. Mr. Carlson had befriended several of the 101 Ranch performers and inherited many of the items including this pistol which he passed down to the author of the letter. The 101 Ranch out of Oklahoma was one of the last Wild West Shows and had many famous performers travel with them including Tom Mix and Bill Pickett.
BBL: 8 inch fluted rib
Stock:
Gauge: 44 S&W
Finish: nickel
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 5400


Fair. The revolver retains traces of the original nickel finish with the balance a deep brown patina. The barrel shows a few gouges in the metal on the left side and the revolver shows some minor pitting scattered overall. All markings are clear with only the "6" on the cylinder difficult to distinguish. The grips are fair with some minor chips and gouges. The inscriptions on the inside of each grip panel is clear. Mechanically the latch is loose and the cylinder does not lock up properly.