Offered here is a true rarity of early 20th century Smith & Wesson collecting: a documented factory engraved .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model Triple Lock. Only one other engraved example with a 4 inch barrel is known to exist. The accompanying factory letter confirms the barrel length, nickel finish and Style 3 engraving. When shipped on May 5, 1917, the revolver had checkered walnut gold medallion grips. The currently fitted factory gold medallion grips were likely purchased separately from the S&W service department at the same time. The revolver was delivered to Mr. R.A. Rose (no address given), a S&W distributor of the period. The floral scroll Style 3 engraving on a punch dot background covers 75% of the metal surfaces. The barrel markings are inside engraved rectangle panels. The S&W logo is surrounded by the engraved motif on the right side plate. Among the scrollwork on the left side of the frame is a floral banner under the cylinder latch. The frame has a collection-like number ("HO-49-00-15") hand marked on the bottom of the frame under the cylinder. Matching serial numbers are found on the butt, ejector shroud and cylinder. The assembly number "6781" is marked on the yoke and crane. According to the included consignor research, this revolver was presented to the sheriff of Cherry County, Nebraska, Clement Moses Hahn, by the town of Valentine. The revolver was given in appreciation of Hahn's heroism during a shootout with three bank robbers. Although out numbered, Hahn confronted the three criminals who responded to Hahn's demand to lay down their arms with gunfire. When the dust settled, an unscathed Hahn had shot all three robbers, keeping the town's money secure. The gun transferred to Hahn's son, Clement Ross and remained in the family until 2011. Often considered the best S&W revolver ever manufactured, the Triple Lock concept was designed specifically for the "44 Special" cartridge, which was the "magnum" cartridge during this time. Over the years the Triple Lock Model has gained something of a cult following. Most S&W experts are of the opinion that the Triple Lock mechanism was more an expression of the ultimate in precision machine work than as a necessity for strength and function as S&W's usual two locks already provided more locking strength than their competitor Colt. Provenance: Chad Gripp collection.

Excellent. The revolver retains 99% original nickel finish showing a cylinder drag line and one small flake of the finish on the yoke, visible only when opened. 98% plus original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The engraving is crisp and well executed. The grips are fine with a repaired chip (right panel) and a tiny nick near the bottom (left panel). A superb example of a factory engraved, short barrel S&W Triple Lock revolver of which only one other example is known to exist. To be the envy of the Triple Lock collector fraternity requires this revolver!