The Model No. 3 First Model American revolvers were manufactured from 1870 to 1872 with approximately 8,000 produced. This Model was the first cartridge revolver issued by the U.S. military. It pre-dates the iconic Colt Single Action Army revolver by three years. The Model 3s were also much faster to reload than Colt's solid frame design. Many of these were carried by western icons including Buffalo Bill Cody and allegedly Wyatt Earp. This example has a pinned round German silver blade front sight and integral groove rear sight on the barrel latch. The top of the barrel rib is marked "+SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JULY 10. 60. JAN. 17. FEB.17. JULY 11. 65 & AUG. 24. 69+". "861" is marked on the barrel, latch, cylinder, and right side of the grip frame. "82564" is stamped on the underside of the right grip panel, and the butt is stamped "4783". It has a casehardened trigger guard and hammer and otherwise a blue finish. The grips are smooth walnut.

Very fine. The revolver retains 70% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish and traces of the original case colors. The balance has a brown patina. There are some minor scratches and patches of mild pitting most notably on the left side of the barrel. The grips are also very fine with some slight scratches and a few small pressure marks. The action is excellent, and the markings are crisp. A high conditioned original Smith & Wesson No. 3 First Model American.