Offered here is an exceptionally fine S&W No. 3 Russian 1st Model commercial revolver with box. Also known as the "Old, Old Model Russian Revolver", these revolvers were developed for the Russian Government in 1871 and manufactured until 1874. The total production of the commercial First Model Russian was 5,165. These revolvers were identical to the Number 3 American except chambered for the 44 S&W Russian cartridge and the "RUSSIAN MODEL" marking on the address. The top of the barrel rib is marked "SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD. MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JULY.10.1860. JAN.17. FEB. 17. JULY.11.65 & AUG.24.69. RUSSIAN MODEL". The serial number is marked on the butt and both grip panels, and the matching assembly marking "H95" appears on the right side of the grip frame, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch. It has pinned blade front and notch rear sights, lanyard ring on the butt, casehardened hammer and trigger guard, nickel plated barrel, cylinder and frame and pearl grips. Comes with an unmarked period S&W factory green box. The accompanying factory letter lists this revolver with an 8 inch barrel and smooth walnut grips when shipped on December 12, 1872 and delivered to M.W. Robinson of New York City. This shipment was for 60 revolvers in both blue and nickel finishes, as was standard practice for the Robinson Co.

Exceptionally fine. The revolver retains 95% plus mellow original nickel finish showing some minor high edge wear mostly on the cylinder. Strong original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are excellent with some minor scratches and highly attractive color. Mechanically excellent. The box is fine with repaired corners and some minor wear. A truly exceptional, untouched and all original 1st Model Russian in the box, one of a kind!