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LOT 348
Very Early Three-Digit Serial Number 140 Boxed Factory Documented Ed McGivern Smith
& Wesson Model 40 Centennial Double Action Revolver with Inscription - Serial no. 140,
38 S&W Special cal., 2 inch solid rib bbl., blue finish, walnut grips. This model was introduced in
1952 and was called the “Centennial” for Smith & Wesson’s 100th anniversary. It is of the Safety
Hammerless design built on the J frame with a fully concealed hammer and a grip safety. In
addition to the standard markings, this revolver is engraved “ED/McGIVERN” on the right side of
the frame and was owned by Ed McGivern. The accompanying factory letter dated December
20, 1979, states that this revolver was shipped from the factory to Ed McGivern on June 18, 1953.
Ed McGivern was a world famous exhibition and trick shooter during the 1930’s through the
1950’s who shot throughout the U.S. and Europe. At one time he was dubbed “The Fastest Gun
In the World” and his feats of trick and speed shooting were legendary in the shooting industry.
Ed helped develop early pistol training courses and defensive shooting techniques for the FBI.
Factory equipped, at McGivern’s request, with his personally designed famous gold bead front
sight. The trigger is casehardened and it is fitted with smooth walnut grips with silver S&W
medallions. Complete with a photo of McGivern shooting two clay targets at the same time with
two revolvers. The original two piece red box with the serial number hand marked on the bottom
and the correct end label.
CONDITION: Excellent with 95% plus of the original finish remaining with wear limited to muzzle
and high edges of the cylinder. There are some very light scratches and a drag line on the cylinder.
The grips are also excellent with only a couple of light dings. Mechanically excellent. The box is
very good plus with some moderate corner and edge wear. The interior is excellent. The end label
is fully intact as well as the directions affixed to the inside of the lid. An opportunity like this very
seldom presents itself; this is one that any advanced Smith & Wesson collector won’t want to miss.
Provenance: Ed McGivern; The Michael Priwer Collection.
Estimate: 4,000 - 7,000
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