This is a very nice example of a Model Number 1 First Issue revolver manufactured from 1857 to 1860. This Model 1 1st Issue 2nd Type revolver features the rare "bayonet" or "flat spring" barrel latch found only on first approximately 1,130 Model Number 1 1st Issue revolvers (1st and 2nd Type). The revolver also has the revolving recoil plate attached to the frame. The top of the barrel rib is marked: SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS" and the cylinder is marked with the early "PATENTED APR. 3 1855" marking around the center. The matching serial number is marked on the butt, rear of the barrel, the front face of the cylinder and on the inside of each grip panel. Blade front and notch rear sights, 7 round un-fluted cylinder, square flared butt, blue barrel and cylinder, silver plated brass frame and fitted with smooth varnished rosewood grips.

Very fine. The barrel retains 30% scattered original blue finish mixed with a smooth brown patina. The remaining blue finish is in the protected areas. The cylinder has a brown patina with a small area of very minor pitting. The frame retains half of the original silver plating which is beginning to darken with age in areas. The exposed brass has a very attractive untouched aged patina. The grips are good with most of the original varnish remaining and showing a couple of moderate chips on the lower left edge and overall a few minor dents and dings. The markings are clear. The action is fine. A very nice example of a rarely found and highly sought after variation of the Number 1, 1st Issue revolver, the gun that started it all.