This is an excellent example of a custom engraved and gold inlaid Smith & Wesson Model 60 revolver. According to Roger Bleile, author of American Engravers (1980) and American Engravers- The 21st Century (2010) this outstanding engraving was done by the hand of Hiroo Sugaya, master engraver for the firearms distributor, REI, of Park Ridge, Illinois, in late 1969. Hiroo Sugaya was a European trained, master Japanese engraver with an uncanny ability to engrave stainless steel with the same smooth lines as carbon steel. Most stainless engravers and the known examples of their artistry clearly show what a difficult task that is to accomplish. In late 1969, he was contracted by REI in Park Ridge, IL to engrave 5 S&W Model 60 revolvers in full coverage. It is known is that he completed at least 3 of the American Eagle Model 60’s and 1 of the Japanese Dragon examples prior to his death. One of the S&W Model 60 “Eagles” appeared on the cover of GUNS Magazine issue of Feb. 1970. There is a small boxed caption on the inside cover that makes reference to the "Japanese Artist of REI " but makes no mention of his name. A short reference to REI was also made in the 1970 Gun Digest Deluxe Edition, page 134, depicting a photo of the same S&W Model 60 “Eagle” that was on the cover of GUNS Magazine. This revolver is, when compared to the magazine cover photo, obviously one of the 5 mentioned above, and features "A" coverage of floral scroll designs with a matte background. The only areas not covered are the cylinder flutes, sighting groove and upper front strap. The right rear of the frame features a gold inlaid American Eagle. The left side of the barrel is marked "SMITH & WESSON" in a panel, "38 S&W SPL." on the right side in a panel, the S&W logo is on the left side of the frame and the four line address is on the right front of the frame in a panel. The right side of the butt under the grip is marked with fitters stamps; the letter "C" in a triangle and the letter "A" in a circle. The matching assembly number, "77771" is marked on the left side of the butt under the grip and on the crane. Fixed blade front sight, frame notch rear sight, all nickel finish and fitted with checkered walnut S&W grips.