This silver and gold plated target variation of S&W’s New Model No. 3 features a splendid, highly sought after factory engraving by Master Engraver Gustave Young. Young worked with Smith & Wesson as early as 1865 after serving as Colt's Master Engraver and was the in-house engraver for Smith & Wesson starting in 1869 until his death in 1895. His sons, Oscar, Eugene, and Robert, also worked for Smith & Wesson and used similar styles. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with a 6 ½ inch barrel, adjustable rear target sight, silver finish, factory engraving and pearl grips when it was shipped with no. 27856 in the same configuration to noted early 1890s to early 1900s champion rifle and revolver shooter Professor John Loris of Washington, D.C. on September 25, 1891. This revolver falls into a very special serial number range of exhibition quality S&W New Model No. 3s. Only thirty numbers away, this revolver’s other mate, No. 27885, which is also in this auction, is another factory highly embellished arm. Gustave Young engraved, gold plated and pearl stocked No. 27885 has been identified as being displayed at S&W’s 1893 World's Columbian Exposition exhibit. At the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition S&W exhibited some of the finest revolvers in the history of the factory with Gustave Young engraving most of them such as this revolver. Without a doubt this revolver, No. 27855, is of equal artistry and most certainly would have been a contender for exhibition. It is also important to note that Nos. 27855 and 27885 were both shipped to well-known late 19th/early 20th century marksman. No. 27855 was delivered to Professor John Loris, and No. 27885 was delivered to Walter Winans. On this revolver Young's elaborate, exhibition quality scrollwork on a punch dot background along with bordering covers 80% the surface. The two-line barrel rib legend ends with the reissue patent date. The pearl grips feature gold S&W medallions. The barrel and frame are silver plated, and the cylinder is plated in gold. Matching serial numbers are on the butt, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch.

Fine. The barrel retains 95% original silver plating, the cylinder retains 30% original gold plating mostly in the flutes and strong traces of original silver plating remain in the protected areas of the frame, with the overall balance a smooth gray patina. Some minor pitting is present mostly on the right side of the frame. The engraving remains crisp overall. The grips are also fine with a small chip at the bottom (left panel), some minor handling marks and attractive fiery colors. Mechanically excellent. This is the perfect opportunity to acquire a factory exhibition quality New Model No. 3 that will be a welcomed addition to any S&W or firearms art collection.