OD - VERY GOOD- all original parts; none to 30% original finish; original metal surfaces smooth with all edges sharp; clear lettering, numerals and design on metal; wood slightly scratched or bruised.

Predecessor to the more frequently encountered brass frame "Volcanic", this is a rare example of the 4 inch 31 caliber "lever action magazine pistol" manufactured by Smith & Wesson Repeating Arms Company which began manufacturing in 1854. Relatively little information is known about exact numbers of pistols produced although estimates suggest approximately 600-700. This pistol features the two line parallel barrel address on the top flat marked "SMITH & WESSON/ NORWICH CT." on the top barrel flat and the upper left flat is marked "PATENT/FEB. 14 1854". The right flat is stamped upside down "CAST-STEEL". The frame, hammer, and grip strap feature the typical open scroll and vine motifs. The serial number "A37" is stamped on the left side of the frame under the grip and each grip panel is stamped "37" on the inside. The lever is numbered "329" and does not feature the common finger spur and shows no sign of tampering. Some literature suggests this as a special order feature. Fitted with "bag" style varnished walnut grips. For further reading see Roy Jinks "History of Smith & Wesson" and Supica and Nahas "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 2nd Edition".