Offered here is one of only 276 .38 Winchester Double Action Revolvers S&W manufactured from 1900 to 1910 and it is an early production example with low two digit serial number (48). A derivative of the 44-40 Winchester cartridge, the 38-40 never found the same level of popularity as its parent, resulting in limited production and scarcity on the current market. This example features a period New York style foliate arabesque engraving along with arrow motif on both sides of the barrel and plated in gold over silver. The cylinder is unnumbered. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, barrel, and barrel latch. The revolver wears a set of S&W medallion pearl grips. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Fine as custom engraved and replated with strong traces of the gold plating remaining (strongest on the cylinder) and 95% of the silver plating remaining. The engraving is crisp. 95% of the case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The trigger guard retains 90% of the niter blue finish. The grips are also fine with minor handling marks. Mechanically needs work as cylinder does not lock.