In 1878 S&W introduced the New Model No. 3, and it was an instant success. Its design drew on handling and mechanical improvements from its popular predecessors, the American, Russian and Schofield models, and spawned a series of wide ranging variations, including a target model that dominated target competition in the late 19th century. For many gun historians, the New Model No. 3 was simply the finest single action revolver design of the 19th century, easily beating out the Colt SAA for the top spot. All frames for these revolvers were manufactured prior to 1899, which makes the gun an antique, but they were cataloged into the early 1900s . The New Model 3 serial number range is 1 to 35796, with this example, no. 96, being one of the first 100 S&W manufactured. The revolver has 1 7/16 inch cylinder, the two-line S&W address/patent dates marking on the barrel rib, and checkered walnut grips. The cylinder is unnumbered. Matching serial number "96" appears on the butt, right grip panel, barrel, and barrel latch.

Fine. The barrel and frame retains 40% original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The cylinder retains 30% original blue finish mostly in the flutes with a smooth brown-gray patina on the balance. Traces of original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are very good with minor handling marks and some wear and moderately worn checkering. Mechanically excellent. As one of the first 100 manufactured, New Model No. 3 revolver serial no. 96 is a must have for the serious S&W collector.