A rare example of one of the 1000 S&W First Model American revolvers manufactured by Smith & Wesson for the U.S. Army. The serial number, "1733" is documented in the list of U.S. Army Contract S&W American revolvers on page 92 of "THE STANDARD CATALOG OF SMITH & WESSON" by Jim Supica. The revolver has the S&W high polish blue finish with case-hardened hammer and trigger guard and two-piece walnut stocks. A half-moon, German silver front sight blade is mounted on the barrel rib. "US" is stamped in small letters on the barrel rib behind the patent dates. "A" Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on the left side of the top strap, in one cylinder flute and on the left side of the frame above the trigger guard. A "P" proof mark is stamped on the right side of the barrel in front of the hinge and in one cylinder flute. The script initials of the Ordnance Inspector are stamped in a rectangle on the lower portion of the left stock. The serial number, 1733, is located on the butt and on the interior side of the right grip. An assembly number, "S3" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder and on the inside of the cylinder latch. The S&W 1860-69 patent dates are roll-stamped in a single line on the barrel rib.

Very fine. The revolver retains approximately 60% of the original, high polish blue finish. The contact points show handling wear and have aged to a blue brown patina. The trigger guard, hammer and frame latch have a dove-gray casehardened finish with muted case colors. The metal surfaces have scattered light scratches and handling marks but are free from rust or pitting. The stocks are in good condition with moderate handling wear; the Ordnance inspection mark on the left grip is visible but not legible. The patent dates, "US" marking on the barrel, proof marks and Ordnance inspection marks are crisp. The action is tight and functions perfectly. This is an exceptional example of a very rare U.S. Army S&W First Model American Revolver.