Manufactured in 1956, this is a scarce and very attractive example of Smith & Wesson's K-38 Combat Masterpiece, also known as the "Pre-Model 15", with the highly collectible, special order, two-tone "pinto" finish. The included factory letter lists the revolver with a special 3 inch barrel, polished sights, and a two-tone finish when shipped to Jurek Bros. Inc. in Greenfield, Massachusetts on 20 December 1956. These two-tone "pinto" finished revolvers were all special order and are very scarce making them highly collectible. This example appears to be the first K-38 Combat Masterpiece "pinto" that we have cataloged here at Rock Island Auction Company, though one other example is known, and is the inverse of this particular example. The barrel has the Smith & Wesson marking on the left and the caliber marking on the right. The right of the frame has the trademark and four-line address. The matching serial number is on the butt, rear face of the cylinder, and bottom of the barrel. The inside of both grip panels are stamped "K". The barrel and cylinder are finished nickel, while the remainder of the revolver is blued. It is fitted with the typical ramped blade front sight with orange insert, adjustable notch rear sight, and a pair of smooth Goncalo Alves grips with "S&W" monogram medallions. Provenance: The Michael Priwer Collection