The revolver has standard S&W markings, "UNITED STATES PROPERTY" on the barrel underside and correct military inspection and proofmarks. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, cylinder and barrel. Fitted with later production S&W medallion plastic grips. According to the accompanying signed letter from Jack Binion, this gun, identified by its crane-stamped assembly number (22807) was "one of a matched set of handguns" owned and carried by his father, mob boss and Las Vegas gambling icon Benny Binion, in a twin shoulder holster for personal protection. Benny acquired the handguns while living in Dallas, Texas, and continued to carry the handguns after he moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. Jack also states that this revolver was inherited by his brother, Ted, after their father died and Ted later gave the revolver to Benny's long time friend Don Sparks. A second letter (copy) signed by Jesse and Don Sparks confirms the information presented in Jack Binion's letter along with additional information about the last know whereabouts of the second revolver which was in possession of the Las Vegas Police Department. The Sparks testified that on one occasion Benny brandished the weapon while stating, "If anyone does come in my room up here in the Horseshoe, they won't be a'leaving." Born in Texas, Benny Binion's (1904-1989) criminal activity dated back to 1924 around the time he set up moonshining operations in El Paso and later Dallas. In 1931, he was convicted in the shooting and killing of a rum runner and received a two-year suspended sentence. Moonshine operations quickly turned into several other illegal activities including gambling. His gambling empire, which was mainly run out of Dallas hotels, became the largest of its kind in the state, and Benny's stature of mob boss of Dallas allowed him and his men to kill two rivals without the threat of jail time. Eventually, law enforcement ran him out of Texas and Benny ended up in Las Vegas where he practically reinvented the gambling industry, such as offering his patrons free transportation rides to and from his casino, free drinks, generous comps and upscale dining, gambling, and hotel rooms. High rollers flocked to the Horseshoe due to the casino's high limit betting policy. For instance, his crap tables were originally set to a $500 bet limit which was ten times higher than the limit set at his competitors. In 1970, Benny invited seven of his best poker players to a tournament, and thus was born the World Series of Poker. Still held annually in Las Vegas, the World Series of Poker now consists of 74 events.

Fine, retaining 50% faded original blue finish and flashes of original case colors with the balance a smooth gray patina. The lanyard swivel is absent. The undersize replacement grips are also fine with minor handling evidence. Mechanically excellent. This Model 1917 linked to mob boss and gambling icon Benny Binion will definitely add great flare to your growing collection. A must have for the true crime or Las Vegas collector!