Manufactured from 1899 to 1902 with a total production of approximately 20,975. Equipped with a half moon front sight and frame notch rear sight. Smooth trigger and checkered hammer are both casehardened, and the frame bears a large S&W logo on the right side. The top of the barrel is marked with the Smith & Wesson two line address/patent dates with the left side marked: "+S & W 38 MIL+" , which was the early designation of the 38 Special. The butt is marked "U.S./ARMY/MODEL/1899". The underside of the barrel, the back of the cylinder and the front grip strap are stamped with number "13696". The frame cutout for the crane is stamped "18892". The underside of the barrel, left rear edge of the frame and the back side of the cylinder are stamped with the inspector initials "K.S.M.". The grips are checkered walnut with "J.T.T. 1901" stamped on the left and "K.S.M." on the right.

Extremely fine overall with 85% plus of the bright original blue finish, showing wear and blue loss on the sides of the front end of the barrel, and thinning on the grip straps. There is a very light mixed/speckled brown patina color showing on the sides of the cylinder and rear back strap in some areas. The grips are excellent with nice clear distinct markings, nice original finish and checkering showing light wear across the tops and on both sides. An exceptionally nice original early production U.S. Smith & Wesson Model 1899 Army service revolver.