Manufactured in 1939, this is an excellent example of the iconic Smith & Wesson "Registered Magnum" that was shipped to Denver, Colorado. These revolvers were the first production revolver chambered in the new and very powerful .357 Magnum cartridge and thus, were very popular among law enforcement of the time, who valued any edge they could give themselves should a gunfight occur. These revolvers were custom built and hand fitted to special ordered specifications, whether from a retailer or an individual customer, and were then individually registered to the owner by the vice president of the company, D.B. Wesson. Due to this extensive level of customization and craftsmanship, the revolvers were expensive to make, leading to the certificate and registration numbering being discontinued in 1939-1940. The included factory letter lists this revolver, Reg. # 4800, with a 6 1/2 inch barrel, Call gold bead front sight, and that it was sighted at 25 yards with a 6 o'clock hold. It lists that it was shipped to Gart Brothers in Denver, Colorado on 6 June 1939. The included Registration Certificate lists the same configuration as the factory letter, as well as a square notch rear sight, 3 1/2 lb. single action trigger pull, 10 lb. double action trigger pull, and the registered owner as John E. Pax of Cheyenne, Wyoming. The left side of the barrel has the Smith & Wesson marking, while the caliber marking is on the right. The right side of the frame has the trademark and "MADE IN U.S.A." The matching serial number is on the butt, rear face of the cylinder, inside the ejector rod shroud, and stamped inside the right grip panel. The registration number is in the crane, and the matching assembly number is on the frame and crane. The top of the barrel and top of the frame are matted with the standard fine checkering. It is fitted with the Call gold beaded blade front sight, adjustable notch rear sight, standard grooved hammer, and a pair of checkered walnut grips with "S&W" monogram medallions. Includes the original factory blue and gold 'picture' box, numbered on the bottom with both the serial and registration numbers. Provenance: John E. Pax; The Michael Priwer Collection