Offered here is a S&W Model Number One 1st Issue 2nd Type revolver which features the rare "bayonet" or flat spring barrel latch found only on first approximately 1,130 Model Number One 1st Issue revolvers (1st and 2nd Type). The revolver also has the revolving recoil plate attached to the frame. The profuse period New York engraving consists mostly of floral scrollwork on a punch dot background. The sides of the barrel also have engraved cross hatching. The barrel rib has the one-line address, the cylinder has the 1855 patent marking, and matching serial numbers are on the butt, both grip panels, barrel and cylinder. Accompanying this rare revolver is an equally rare S&W gutta percha case with decorative relief lid showing an image of a No. 1 revolver and "MANUFACTURED ONLY BY/SMITH & WESSON,/SPRINGFIELD MASSACHUSETTS". The inside of the lid has decorative red wine velvet and the case contains a cartridge block holding 44 rounds.

The barrel retains traces of original blue finish in the protected areas, otherwise a smooth gray patina with some pitting. The cylinder has a smooth brown-gray patina. The frame retains areas of original silver plating. The engraving is crisp. The grips are fine with minor handling marks. Mechanically needs work as the hammer does not hold at full cock. The case is fine with a few hairline stress cracks, some scattered chipping and typical high spot wear on the lining. The relief patterns are crisp. An incredibly rare tip-up in an equally rare case no serious S&W collector should be without. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.