This model was manufactured between 1861 and 1874, this revolver was very successful commercially. Many of these were used as personal side arms by Civil War soldiers, as it was the only weapon able to fire self-contained cartridges and be easily carried as a backup by soldiers going off to war. The top of the barrel rib is marked "SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS." and the serial number is marked on the butt. German silver blade fixed front sight, 6-shot, unfluted cylinder is marked with the S&W 1855, 1859 and 1860 patent dates around the center. The back strap is inscribed "Lieut. C.H. Ellingwood / Co. D. 1st Regt N.Y.S.V." Information provided by the consignor from ancestry.com shows that during the Civil War Charles Henry Ellingwood was supposedly commissioned as an Ensign in Company D, 1st Regiment, of the New York State Volunteers on November 2, 1861 and was eventually promoted to 2nd Lieutentent and resigned on February 3, 1862. He reportedly was also a member of the 7th Regiment, Co. F of the New York State National Guard. The Regiment was stationed in Camp Butler, Newport News, Virginia. The New York State volunteers 1st Regiment, including Company D, mustered in on April 22, 1861 and mustered out on May 25, 1863. While active fought in a number of battles on the East Coast. The frame has a spur trigger and two-pin top strap. Fitted with varnished smooth two piece rosewood grips. Comes with a box of Smith & Wesson 32 cartridges (mostly full, some head stamped "P" and a few 32 auto rounds).

Very fine. The revolver retains 70% original blue finish with muzzle, high edge wear and flaking on the barrel, a mix of smooth brown patina and original blue finish on the cylinder, a smooth mottled gray patina on the grip straps. There is some minor flaking on the frame and some overall scattered minor scratches. The grips are period refinished fine with most of the varnish remaining, some lower edge wear and a few minor scattered dings. Clear markings and inscription. The action is excellent.