As noted in the included factory letter, "This revolver was one of 340 units built at the request of the Turkish Government." These rare "Turkish models" were standard Russian models converted to .44 Henry Rimfire. Records are not available to know which contract revolvers were forwarded to Turkey as the revolvers were delivered from the factory to S&W's New York distributor and acting Turkish government agent M.W. Robinson. This revolver was shipped on April 18, 1877. Around 5,000 Russian 3rd Model revolvers were ordered by Turkey. The revolver was subsequently period New York style engraved. S&W historian Roy Jinks noted the engraving in the factory letter: "The [Turkish contract] revolvers were plain handguns with smooth wood grips upon shipment. Based on the photograph you forwarded it is my opinion that the engraving was completed by a New York City engraver." The revolver is decorated with excellent quality New York style broad scrollwork on a punch dot background covering 80% of the surface. The barrel rib has the legend ending with the reissue date. A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt. The back of the right grip is stamped with the frame serial number. The cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch are also numbered to the gun. With a star and moon embossed leather flap holster. These rare "Turkish models" saw hard use and when encountered are generally in rough condition. The high condition of this revolver along with its New York engraving is certainly a standout example. According to our consignor the revolver came out of England. The revolver is pictured in Jim Supica and Richard Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 110, David Chicoine's "Smith & Wesson Sixguns of the Old West" on pages 120 and 122, Dean Boorman's "The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms" on page 105, and Michael Kennelly's "Smith & Wesson Engraving" on page 72. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Fine as period New York engraved, retaining 90% period replated nickel finish. The engraving is crisp. The undersized grips are fine with some typical age lines, some minor handling marks, and attractive color. Mechanically excellent. The holster is very good. A rare Turkish Contract S&W Russian 3rd Model Revolver with attractive New York engraving.