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LOT 484
Exceptional Factory Cased Smith & Wesson First Model “Model of 1891” Single Shot Pistol - Serial no. 22757, 22 LR cal., 6 inch solid rib bbl., nickel finish, hard rubber grips. Manufactured from 1893-1905, the S&W Single Shot Model of 1891 was a favorite among target shooters including the U.S. Olympic Team and was used along with its Second and Third Model successors for many years in target matches spanning the globe. Offered here is a high condition example which is one of only 862 manufactured by S&W chambered in .22 LR with
a small fraction of them fitted with the 6 inch barrel length. The top of the barrel rib has the “MODEL OF 91” marking flanked by the two-line address and patent dates markings. The pistol is fitted with a pinned Marble No. 32 beaded blade front sight and adjustable “U” notch rear sight. Matching serial numbers appear on the front strap, barrel, and barrel latch. The pistol wears extended checkered hard rubber S&W monogram grips.
The period leather bound case contains two boxes of Remington-UMC .22 LR cartridges. One box has a full count of 50 rounds. The other box contains 40 rounds. The leather exterior of the case has a silver inscription plaque featuring the engraved initials “J.S.B.” The interior of the case is lined in brown chamois.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retaining 98% plus original nickel plating on the barrel and frame and 97% original case colors on the hammer and trigger guard. The right grip panel
has a long hairline crack and a small chip at the top, otherwise the grips are fine with some scattered handling marks and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good overall with wear visible mostly on the exterior.
Estimate: 3,500 - 4,750
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