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LOT 1096
Outstanding Smith & Wesson Model 3 Transitional American Single Action Revolver with Highly Desirable Presentation Case - Serial no. 6696, 44 S&W American cal., 8 inch solid rib bbl., nickel finish, walnut grips. Transitional Americans are found in the approximately 3,200-3,700 and 6,000-8,000 with this example no. 6696 falling in the generally excepted latter range. Transitional models are distinguished by a shorter 1.423 inch cylinder, a 2nd American style interlocking hammer and latch and a 1st American style flat bottom frame. The barrel rib has a pinned rounded blade front sight and is stamped with the one-line S&W address/patent dates legend. Matching assembly number “118” appears on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. The period case is lined in royal purple velvet and contains a cleaning rod and an empty box of Peters Cartridge Co. .44 S&W American cartridges. The American model was introduced 3 years before the Colt Single Action Army revolver and is probably, more than any other model, associated with the historic American West. As S&W expert Roy Double pointed out over fifty years ago, “This was a work gun; a big, heavy-caliber holster gun worn openly and ready to hand; a timely gun indigenous to America on the move and a part of America’s greatest adventures.” Difficult to obtain in any condition, this original Transitional American revolver is indeed a rare and desirable firearm in outstanding condition worthy of the finest collection. CONDITION: Excellent, retaining 98% plus original nickel plating with a cylinder drag line and some scattered handling marks. The hammer retains nearly all vivid original case colors. Traces of original case colors remain on the trigger guard, otherwise faded to an attractive gray. The grips are also excellent with some very scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with a couple of hairline cracks visible on the lid, minor handling/storage marks, and faded original lining. An excellent presentation S&W Transitional American revolver that will be a standout piece in any collection. One will look a long time to find another! Provenance: The Norm Vegely Collection.
Estimate: 12,000 - 18,000 89