North American Auction Company
Live Auction

American Indian& the West End of Year SALE

Sat, Nov 17, 2018 12:00PM EST
Lot 74

Smith & Wesson Model No.1 Third Issue Revolver

Estimate: $450 - $750

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
Very high condition Smith & Wesson Model No.1, Third Issue revolver, 7 shot, caliber .22 short rim fire. This was the final incarnation of the first metallic cartridge S&W revolvers that launched the company into being one of the most famous and successful firearms manufacturers of all time. This superior quality revolver was made from 1868-1881 and was a particular favorite of women or anyone needing a small, multi shot self defense weapon. This model is known as a “tip-up” revolver as the barrel tips up for loading and is secured by a hinge at the top of the barrel and frame juncture. For unloading fired cases, the barrel was tipped upward, the cylinder slid forward and free and then the stationary rod mounted under the barrel was utilized to push the empty cartridge cases free from the cylinder chambers. Loading was simple. The cylinder was easily loaded with seven cartridges, the cylinder was replaced in the frame and the barrel swung down and spring-locked in place. At this point the gun was ready to be fired. Since these were small arms and easily concealed in pockets or purses, most saw considerable carry use and surviving specimens today are usually found with much of the original finish worn off. This is a superb example in the middle serial number range for this model of 94389. It retains nearly all of the bright factory nickel finish and has beautiful factory rosewood grips that are in excellent condition showing no chips or cracks. The mechanics are also fine and even the bore is bright with sharp rifling. It retains perfect, sharp and correct barrel markings consisting of the Smith and Wesson address and patent dates ending in 1860. Overall, this early S&W is in a state of preservation seldom seen for a small pocket revolver made in the mid-1870s. The firearm qualifies as an Antique FIX, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check. Serial Number: 94389

Condition

For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer’s responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.