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  • /Lot 2271

Lot 2271:U.S. Purchased S&W Oil Hole Model 3 American 1st Model Revolver

December 1st, 2018|Rock Island, IL
  • /Auctions...
  • /Catalog...
  • /Lot 2271

Lot 2271:U.S. Purchased S&W Oil Hole Model 3 American 1st Model Revolver

December 1st, 2018|Rock Island, IL
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Estimated Price$7,000 - $9,000
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Scarce and Very Desirable Documented U.S. Purchased Smith & Wesson "Oil Hole" Model 3 American 1st Model Revolver

This revolver is listed by its serial number "908" in the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" by Jim Supica & Richard Nahas as a Model 3 that was purchased by the U.S. government. Compounding the significance of this revolver is the rarely observed oil hole (located on the rear of the extractor housing on the bottom of the barrel lug) as found on the first 1,500 or so of this model. The barrel rib has the one-line S&W address/patent dates marking and lacks the "US" marking. The letter "A" on the left side of the frame is the only visible U.S. sub-inspector mark. The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. Matching assembly numbers are found on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel latch and barrel. The S&W American Model 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.

ConditionVery good, retaining strong traces, 20%, of bright original blue finish in the sheltered areas found on the frame, otherwise a mottled brown-gray patina. The grips are also very good showing high edge wear and some minor dings and scratches. Mechanically fine. This will fill the vacant slot in your Indian War collection very nicely!
Details
ManufacturerSmith & Wesson
Model3 American
TypeRevolver
Serial number
ClassAntique
Caliber / Gauge44 S&W Amer
Barrel8 inch solid rib
Finishblue
Gripwalnut

Item LocationRock Island, IL
Views1632
Catalog page135
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