As confirmed by the included factory letter this S&W Model 3 American First Model Revolver was sold on March 16, 1871 and shipped to the United States Government, National Armory, Springfield, MA. The revolver was part of a shipment of 1,000 units, 800 blue finish and 200 in nickel finish. The letter confirms the 8 inch barrel and smooth walnut grips and was originally shipped with the very rare nickel finish (only 200 were manufactured for the contract in nickel). Surviving examples of U.S. martial Model 3 Americans are scarce and highly desirable. The barrel rib is marked "+ SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS.U.S.A.PAT.JULY 10. 60. JAN. 17. FEB. 17. JULY 11. 65 &AUG. 24. 69 +" followed by "US". A small "A" ordnance sub-inspection mark is present on the left side of the frame under the cylinder, a cylinder flute and barrel top strap. All nickel finish. The serial number is marked on the butt with the right grip panel stamped with the number "22762." The rear of the cylinder, barrel latch and the barrel are marked "E2."

Very good as period re-nickeled. The inspection markings were mostly covered up in the process with exception of the top rib. The revolver retains most of the nickel finish showing some scattered mild pitting under the finish. The slightly undersized grips are fine with some minor handling marks. An overall rare U.S. martial revolver as documented by a factory letter.