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  • Auction Catalog #59
  • Lot #4
Lot #3
Lot #5

Lot 4: Rare Cased Pair of Smith & Wesson First Model 'Model of 1891' Si

Rare Cased Pair of Smith & Wesson First Model "Model of 1891" Single Shot Pistols with British Proofs

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 15, 2013

Lot 4: Rare Cased Pair of Smith & Wesson First Model 'Model of 1891' Si

Rare Cased Pair of Smith & Wesson First Model "Model of 1891" Single Shot Pistols with British Proofs

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 15, 2013

Estimated Price: $10,000 - $15,000
Price Realized:
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A) Smith & Wesson First Model "Model of 1891" Single Shot Pistol

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: 1
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 32 S&W
Barrel: 8 inch solid rib
Finish: nickel
Grip: hard rubber
Stock:
Item Views: 4410
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 9
Class: Antique
Description:

Manufactured between 1893 and 1905 with a total production of only 1,251, and just an estimated 229 in the 32 S&W caliber. This unusual pistol combines the frame of a 38 single action 3rd Model with a single shot barrel. This pistol is a top break and functions exactly as a revolver does. The top of the barrel rib is marked with the two line, two block address/patent dates with "MODEL OF 91" in the center and the serial number is marked on the front strap. The left rear of the barrel is marked with a single London provisional proof mark. All nickel finish with a casehardened hammer and trigger guard, and polished trigger. Fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the "S&W" logo in a circle at the top. The pair come in a wooden case with tan suede lining. In the case are two cleaning brushes and a brass screwdriver.

Rating Definition:

Excellent. The pistol retains 98% original nickel finish with some wear and finish loss on the left front of the barrel, and a few light dings and scratches. The trigger guard shows some muted original case colors mixed with a smooth dove gray patina. The hammer retains 85% original case colors. The grips are also excellent with some minor handling marks and crisp checkering. The markings are sharp. The action is fine.



B) Smith & Wesson First Model "Model of 1891" Single Shot Pistol

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: 1
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 32 S&W
Barrel: 8 inch solid rib
Finish: nickel
Grip: hard rubber
Stock:
Item Views: 4410
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 9
Class: Antique
Description:

Described in "A", but with two Birmingham provisional proofs on the right side, one on the barrel lug and one on the frame, and the small "S&W" logo on the right rear of the frame.

Rating Definition:

Excellent. The pistol retains 97% original nickel finish showing some scattered minor flaking, some muzzle wear and a few light scratches. There are areas that are beginning to frost. The hammer shows 60% original case colors with a smooth brownish gray patina on the balance. The trigger guard has a smooth mottled gray patina with strong original case colors in protected areas. The grips are also excellent with some fading to brown, a few minor handling marks and crisp checkering.



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