This is an exceptional example of a U.S. Contract Smith & Wesson Second Model Schofield revolver with high polish blue finish on the barrel, cylinder and frame. The hammer and trigger guard are casehardened. The revolver is roll-stamped with the "U.S." property mark on the rear of the butt. "E" and "P" inspector proof marks are stamped on the rear face of the cylinder and on the bottom of the barrel flat. The serial number "5457"is stamped on the bottom of the butt, the rear face of the cylinder and on the inside of the right grip. The right side of the barrel lug is roll-stamped: "+ SCHOFIELD'S PAT. APR. 22D 1873 +". The left side of the barrel lug is marked: "+SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS.U.S.A.PAT.JAN.17TH/&24TH 65. JULY 11 65. JULY 27TH 71." in two lines with a large Maltese Cross on either side of the marking. The left stock is stamped with the inspector's script initials "JRJr" in an oval above "1876". The sub-inspector's script initials "CW" are stamped in an oval on the right grip. Smith & Wesson manufactured 5,285 Second Model Schofield revolvers under government contract.

Excellent. The frame retains a strong 95% original Smith & Wesson high polish blue finish with most of the wear isolated to the back strap and showing only the slightest collector type handling marks. The cylinder retains approximately 75% original blue finish thinning on high points. 50% original blue finish remains on the barrel mostly in sheltered areas, the balance is an even holster aged brown patina. The address and patent dates are still crisp. The casehardened hammer and trigger guard retain 95% plus original casehardening exhibiting outstanding and vibrant colors. The grips are excellent plus with only a few small pressure marks. The Army issued Schofield revolvers saw extensive use in the Indian Wars and the militia issued revolvers remained in government service through the Spanish American War, to find one with this much original finish is extremely difficult. This example is definitely one of the finest Second Model Schofield revolvers we have offered at Rock Island Auction!