The revolver was part of a shipment of 1,000 units, 800 blue finish and 200 in nickel finish. The American Revolver was the first cartridge revolver adopted by the U.S. military and saw usage throughout the Indian Wars as it was reported to have been issued to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th Cavalry. Surviving examples of U.S. martial Model 3 Americans are scarce and highly desirable in any condition, and this example would rate in the top 10%. 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 +" followed by a defaced "US". A small "A" ordnance sub-inspection mark is present on the left side of the frame under the cylinder and a cylinder flute (double stamped) with a "P" on a second cylinder flute. The serial number is marked on the butt and right grip panel. The left grip panel has a script letter boxed cartouche. The rear of the cylinder, barrel latch and the barrel are marked "T2." This rare and desirable U.S. martial revolver is listed by its serial number "496" in the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" by Jim Supica & Richard Nahas as a Model 3 that was purchased by the U.S. government.

Very fine. The revolver retains 50% original blue finish concentrated on the frame showing a smooth brown patina down the length of the barrel typical of holster wear. Some minor pitting. The hammer retains some vivid original case colors. The grips are fine with numerous pressure dents on the bottoms and a couple minor handling marks overall. The cartouche is crisp. Mechanically fine. Overall a very fine and very rare Calvary issued #3 American. This revolver without question saw Western frontier use and was probably so beloved by the trooper it was issued to that he kept the revolver. Fearing he had "stolen" U.S. property, he did his best to remove the markings.