Identical to American Models except for the barrel address and chambered for the 44 Russian rather than the 44 American. This is a commercial variation revolver numbered within the American Model serial range. Smith & Wesson manufactured a total of 26,000 1st Model Russians between 1871 and 1874, 5,165 for commercial sales and rejected contract arms, the balance were Russian contract arms. This particular revolver was manufactured in 1873 and features a pinned blade front sight with notched rear sight on barrel latch. The serial number is marked on the butt, and the matching assembly number "H 118" is marked on the rear cylinder face, barrel, and barrel latch. The top of the rib is marked "SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD. MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JULY 10.60. JAN. 17. FEB. 17. JULY. 11 65 & AUG. 24. 69. RUSSIAN MODEL". The left side of the barrel near the breech is inscribed "PRESENTED TO/F.W. RUWE/BY/CAPT. SMITH/SEPT. 15 - 1892". Nickel finish with casehardened hammer and trigger, the lanyard on the butt has been removed and a screw has been placed in the hole. Fitted with smooth walnut grips and with the matching serial number stamped on the inside of the right panel. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number as having an 8 inch barrel, nickel finish, walnut grips and that it was shipped to M.W. Robinson, New York, N.Y. on February 21, 1873. There are also letters of correspondence attempting to learn the origin of the inscription, however the only thing known is that F.W. Ruwe farmed in the Freemont, Nebraska area and had a son Lester in 1902. There is also a obituary for Mr. Ruwe from the Freemont Daily Tribune from May 28, 1937. Provenance Gary Gerbrecht collection.

Excellent. The revolver retains 95% plus original nickel finish with a small area of smooth gray patina on the back strap and some areas that are "frosted". The barrel spring is missing its spring. Overall there are a few minor scratches. The grips are fine. The right panel appears have been period touched up with a light coat of varnish with much still remaining and showing several minor dents. The left grip panel shows a period professional repair to a hairline crack and some overall pressure dents. The markings are crisp and clear, as is the inscription. Mechanically excellent. Some research may prove very interesting.