Superb very early production Smith & Wesson .38 Single Action Second Model revolver with Smith & Wesson factory archival historical letter. Quoting this letter signed by Roy Jinks, S&W historian: “...This model is also referred to as a Model 2, Number 2. It was introduced in 1877 and manufactured until 1891, with a total production of 108,255 revolvers. Designed to fire the .38 Smith & Wesson (center fire) cartridge, it was available in a wide variety of barrel lengths. The .38 Single Action was generally sold in nickel. However, the blue finish was also available.” The letter further states, “We have researched your Smith & Wesson .38 Single Action Second model, caliber .38 Smith & Wesson, revolver in company records which indicate that your handgun with serial number 48613 was shipped from our factory on July 27, 1879, and delivered to M. W. Robinson, New York City, NY, Smith & Wesson’s largest distributor. The records indicate that this revolver was shipped with a 3.25 inch barrel,nickel finish, and checkered black hard rubber grips.” This early pre-1880 production example is in particularly excellent condition retaining nearly all of the original bright nickel finish. It is very unusual to encounter this model with only a few minor spots of nickel peeling or wear. This was a turbulent time in American history and handguns of this size were usually carried frequently if not dailyand show great finish wear. The grips also are in fine condition with only one small chip at the extreme bottom of the right panel. All markings are crisp and clear. Amazingly, the hammer sides display fine light case colors and the barrel latch shows fine original blue finish. It is also mechanically excellent. The .38 Single Action revolvers have an automatic ejecting mechanism designed to fully eject fired cases from the five chambers in the cylinder. When the barrel is unlocked by the barrel catch ahead of the hammer, the barrel tilts downward and the ejector “star” pushes the shells out of the chambers and then snaps back into place for reloading. Frequently, these are in inoperable condition. This example is tight and fully functional. The hammer retains both notches- safety half cock and full cock- and the bore is bright and excellent with sharp rifling. A truly superb 142 year old example documented by Smith & Wesson with matching serial numbers on the frame, cylinder, barrel and barrel catch. Serial Number: 48613 This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.