The First Model Russian revolvers were identical to the American Models except for the barrel address and that they were chambered for the 44 Russian rather than the 44 American. This is a commercial revolver numbered within the American Model serial range. Smith & Wesson manufactured a total of 26,000 1st Model Russians between 1871 and 1874. Matching assembly numbers are on the cylinder, 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". It has a nickel plated finish, casehardened hammer and trigger, and is fitted with smooth oiled walnut grips with the matching serial number stamped into the inside of the right panel and lanyard hole at the butt plugged with a screw. According to the consignor, the gun was once carried by Lee Lionberger who was "a law officer in either Colorado or Wyoming." An empty Remington 44 Smith & Wesson Russian box and a leather Mexican double loop holster are included with lot.

Very fine with period modification. The revolver retains 95% original nickel finish with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The right grip has a vertical crack with a nail repair and the left is fine. The front sight is a period replacement. Mechanically fine. The holster is good with some flex wear. This is a solid representative example of a highly desirable Smith & Wesson revolver!