This is a nice example of One of only 5,000 gutta percha cases said to have been made for Smith & Wesson. Most of these were made by Littlefield, Parsons & Co, who also made similar cases for daguerreotypes. These "special" permanent cases were popular during the second half of the 19th Century and were usually used for fancy or presentation guns. They were special ordered or added by the distributor after shipment from the factory. These were generally found with the Model 1, 1st and 2nd Issue revolvers. This particular case is known as the Stand of Flags for the crossed flags relief on the lid. Also featuring four small shields, one at each corner with scroll and floral reliefs as borders. The interior of the lid is lined with padded bright purple velvet, sheared to show a design similar to the exterior decoration. The lining is a red velvet on the bottom with a 56 round cartridge block. There are 27 rounds of original 22 caliber short ammunition with "H", "U" and "US" head stamps. This particular case has some interesting history. The left side of the case displays a hole about the size of a quarter. Apparently, while a revolver sat loaded in the case it discharged putting the hole in the side of the case!

The case is excellent with a few minor chips along the edges. The aforementioned accidental discharge passed through the left side causing a quarter size hole on the base and lid. Other than the burns, the lining shows very little wear. The lid is slightly off center, however the lid latches properly. Overall a fine and rare case with an interesting story to tell!