This is an ultra rare example of one of Smith & Wesson's foreign contract revolvers. This particular revolver was on of approximately 2,000 ordered by the Argentianean government. The included factory letter confirms the caliber, barrel length and blue finish and that the revolver was originally shipped with hard rubber grips. The revolver was shipped from the factory on January 10, 1881 and delivered to Hartley & Graham Co. of New York City. The shipment was for 2002 units and the records indicate that the revolver was "stamped" but the record does not specify for who the order was being manufactured for. The stamping is likely referring to the Argentinean military marking that is located ahead of the trigger, "EJERCITO/ARGENTINO". The top of the barrel rib has the two line address/patent dates ending in the "REISSUE JULY 25, 1871" marking that was used on revolvers that were in the 1-9,000 serial number range. The right side of the ejector rod housing is stamped with the import number "RB76500880001." The serial number is stamped on the butt (obscured by the lanyard swivel), rear cylinder face, barrel and barrel latch. Fitted with smooth walnut grips with the right panel numbered to the gun.

Fine. The revolver retains 60% faded original blue finish with the balance a mottled brown-gray patina with some scattered mild pitting (mostly on the cylinder). The grips are very fine with some minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A missing piece in even the most advanced Smith & Wesson collection.