Lot 596: Hank Williams Jr Presented Smith & Wesson Prototype 629 Revolver

This prototype stainless .44 Magnum revolver was one of the 139 produced in 1978 for testing the new Model 629. Per the included letter from Roy Jinks on S&W letterhead to country music icon Hank Williams Jr., this was done in response to Ruger, who was in development on their own stainless .44 Magnum revolver. The letter also states that this revolver sat in the company vault for over ten years until it was released for presentation on Williams' 40th birthday in May, 1989. The sideplate is engraved with "HANK" over his trademark rising phoenix with "40" in the center and "May 26, 1949" (Williams' birthday) underneath. In addition, the letter states that only 75 of these first 139 revolvers made it through testing, making this revolver even more rare. Included is a factory hardwood display case, unmarked factory box, and certificate of authenticity confirming Hank Williams Jr.'s ownership of this revolver. Provenance: The Hank Williams Jr.'s Collection

Excellent, showing only minor handling evidence and light cylinder drag line. The grips are very fine with some minor varnish loss along the bottom of the left panel. The case is very fine with light storage wear. Mechanically excellent.