Manufactured circa 1873 to 1878 this model is commonly known as the Old Model Russian and is easily recognizable by the spurred trigger guard. The Second Model Russian was also manufactured with a 7 inch solid rib barrel and features a pinned blade front sight and notch rear sight on the barrel latch. This is an unusual example as it lacks a serial number. In his accompanying letter, noted firearms historian Charles W. Pate stated, "The most significant feature of this revolver is that there are no serial numbers anywhere on the pistol. Instead, the pistol is marked with two punch marks...I have not previously seen revolvers marked with only a pair of punch marks as the assembly mark." Pate concluded "that this pistol was indeed unique and was assembled by a workman who used the pair of punch marks as his identifying mark...I cannot explain why it was built, however, the factory is known to have produced other Russian Model oddities, one of which was marked with the letter 'S' on all the major parts instead of with a serial number." The pair of punch marks appear on the butt at the heel, back of each grip panel below the screw, left side of grip frame (assembly marks generally stamped on right side), back of cylinder above a tiny "D", barrel latch, frame between the barrel latch cut-out, and left side of the back of barrel. The barrel rib has the one-line S&W legend ending with "RUSSIAN MODEL." Small "B" on the underside of the barrel and back of left side of the frame.

Exceptionally fine, retaining 95% plus original nickel plating. The grips are very fine with high edge wear and some minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. An unusual unserialized S&W No. 3 Second Model Russian revolver that is a must have for the serious S&W collector. Writer cannot recall another!