Manufactured between 1861 and 1874, with this particular revolver having been made after the Civil War. Many of these were sold commercially and 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. The matching assembly number "977" is marked on the front face of the cylinder and on the back of the barrel lug. German silver blade fixed front sight, 6-shot, unfluted cylinder is roll engraved with the S&W 1855, 1859 and 1860 patent dates around the center. The frame has a spur trigger and three-pin top strap. Fitted with varnished smooth two piece rosewood grips.

Excellent plus. The revolver retains 95% plus original high polish blue finish with the only loss due to flaking on the barrel and top of the back strap. There is the slightest evidence of high edge wear. The casehardened hammer and ejector pin retain 98% of their original case colors and still exhibit their natural low luster appearance. The grips are excellent with 97% original varnish remaining with thinning on the lower edges. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. This is one of the finest Smith & Wesson this writer can recall. A true stunner!