This revolver falls into the 28111-29668 serial number range of an August 1896 dated shipment of New Model No. 3s exported to Japan via Takata & Company. Nearly a third of this model was exported to Japan. This example lacks Japanese contract markings; however, the Japanese military purchase markings are not present on a majority of Japanese contract guns. The lanyard ring is through the butt serial number, and the number "704" was subsequently stamped on the butt. The barrel is unnumbered. The serial number "29391" is clearly marked on the cylinder and barrel latch. Provenance: The Supica Collection