Manufactured directly after the World War I Model 1917 revolver military contract, this is an example of an extremely rare Model 1917 commercial revolver built on the early five screw N frame. These Commercial Model 1917s lack U.S. property markings as seen on the military contract guns. Side plate inscribed "CAPT. E.C. PEVEAR/FREEDOM, N.H." Included scans and research indicate Harvard graduate Edward Clement Pevear (Sept 8th, 1882-June 7th, 1946) as an enlisted lieutenant in the Cavalry in World War I. A later August 6, 1930 dated Burlington Daily News clipping confirms his status as Captain, 316th Cavalry in which he is listed in a roster of Officers assigned to a two week duty at Fort Ethan Allen. Features include a round blade front and notch rear sight, left side of barrel marked "S&W D.A. 45", top of barrel with standard two line patent and address markings, "eagle/S2" proofs underneath the barrel and on the frame underneath the cylinder, and a small S&W logo below the cylinder latch indicating commercial production. Casehardened hammer, trigger and lanyard ring. Fitted with checkered walnut grips with the right grip hand-numbered to the gun. Interestingly, there is a first Model Ladysmith 22 revolver in the NRA museum collection with an identical inscription on the right linked to the same individual. Provenance: The Dr. Robert Azar Collection