According to the included factory letters, this revolver was shipped on June 6, 1916, to Schoverling, Dale & Gale in New York City. Roy Jinks states in the 1978 dated first letter that two entries in the accounting records indicate that the engraving and special grips were likely factory additions. Jinks follows up with another letter in late 1978, after examining the revolver personally from the well known dealer Eric Value, and states that he believes the engraving to have been done by Master Engraver Oscar Young, son of the legendary S&W Master Engraver Gustave Young. However, Oscar Young died in 1912 and this gun, due to its serial number range, could not have been completed by him prior to his death. Given the style and quality of the engraving, this writer agrees completely with Roy Jinks' opinion in a third more recent factory letter, as to the engraver's identity being that of Harry Jarvis. The revolver shows some 75% coverage of masterfully executed floral scroll engraving on a matted background. The grip straps, pearl grips, and trigger have all been expertly checkered. Matching serial numbers on the barrel, cylinder, and butt. The "6.16" date on the grip frame likely applies to the strap and trigger checkering before the gun left the factory.

Excellent, showing 95% plus original blue. There is a cylinder drag line and a few areas showing some wear, including the right side of the barrel along the ejector. The grips are also excellent with sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.