This No. 1 Lever Action Pocket pistol ( "Pocket Volcanic") was manufactured by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Norwich, Connecticut circa 1854-55. Total production of the No.1 lever action repeating pistol is estimated at fewer than 1,200. The top barrel flat is marked "SMITH & WESSON/ NORWICH CT.", "CAST-STEEL" (upside down) on the right flat and "PATENT/FEB 14, 1854" on the left flat. The matching serial number is marked on the lever, on the lower left side of the frame under the grip panel and stamped on the inside of each grip panel. The sides of the receiver are engraved with the standard floral scroll design and upper edges have a floral design. There is a floral design on the back of the hammer and on the back strap. The pistol has the barrel with an integral six-shot magazine, iron frame, round butt and distinctive lever with finger hole and no spur. The barrel has a brass front sight with flattened blade and there is a fixed rear sight is mounted on the frame. The frame was blue, the hammer and lever casehardened and the barrel was browned. Fitted with bag shaped smooth varnished rosewood grips. The lever action and integral magazine introduced on the S&W lever action pistols represented the first iteration of the lever action/integral magazine subsequently incorporated in the successful Henry and Winchester rifles. The unique "rocket ball" cartridge introduced with the S&W lever action repeating pistols was one of the first self-contained cartridges.

Very good. There is a generous amount of the original thin brown finish remaining on the barrel/magazine with a smooth mottled gray patina on the balance. The receiver has been cleaned some time ago and shows some pin prick type pitting. The grips are very good as freshened with a coat of varnish, showing some scattered minor dents and dings. The markings and engraving are clear. The action is fine. A nice example of a scarce and historically significant Smith & Wesson Small Frame Volcanic No. 1 pistol.