Smith & Wesson

Here we have a first week, maybe first day production S&W Schofield .45, sold to the US Government, and delivered same. Serial No. 12X undoubtedly would have been first shipment, to Springfield Arsenal in 1875. ALL original factory parts are present, and ALL factory applied markings are well defined and clearly seen. The barrel legends both sides are very clear as well as ALL inspector markings and US.

This 2nd Model Schofield would have served with the western cavalry until it was deemed duplication of caliber with the Colt, and it and all others were Sold as Surplus. The main purchasers were two: Hartley & Graham, NY and Francis Bannerman, NY. Both had the idea to refurbish them by shortening the barrels to five inches and refinishing. They saw a ready market for sale with Police Departments, and Express Company carriers, all needing reliable protection. This Schofield was bought by Hartley & Graham. Then sold to Wells, Fargo & Co. Express. The Schofield’s can be found with two distinct markings. H&G marked the right side of barrel with ITALIC lettering followed by the serial number of the revolver. Bannerman marked in the same location BUT used block lettering, and serial number. That makes this Wells, Fargo Schofield a H&G product.

*Legal Documents: they show that this Schofield was carried by Marvin Blackwell , in the Newman California area. Even the holster is specifically mentioned, as they have never been separated. It even goes into great detail how in 1941 the family saved this revolver from being dumped into San Francisco Bay ! ALL official documents are notarized in 1998 by surviving family members.

Seldom to never does the collector get to know, who carried it and where with Wells, Fargo & Co.

This was an incredibly significant revolver for the firm of S&W. It was the FIRST .44 caliber revolver they introduced, and first top-break system for loading and unloading. This offered QUICK loading and quicker unloading times, a real advantage. Many of the well known Frontiersmen immediately began carrying one. Buffalo Bill in his pre Show days, Texas Jack Omohundro, Dallas Stoudenmire , and many others. They appreciated the smooth action, grip shape and balance, and all its superior features. Remember this was THREE full years before any Colt Single Action. This 1st American, Serial No. 512X, from 1872, remains in superb ! condition. It has about 85% original blue present, the balance a smooth blending patina. the case hardened/ color on the hammer and trigger guard has slightly faded. ALL factory applied markings are present and distinct: barrel address , serial numbers. Mechanically, the working actions are PERFECT, NO mechanical problems. The Deluxe checkered Ivory grips are stunning, and bear all the characteristics of a 151 year old grip: color striations and NO damage.

A superb 1st American, fit for the finest collection, a very representative Western revolver

IMPORTANT MEXICAN HISTORICAL FIGURE…IGNACIO MEJIA 1872..

This is an absolutely exquisite and beautiful work of the engravers art. It is full exhibition level engraved, in the intricate and wonderful style of Louis Daniel Nimschke. In the last half of the 19th century he engraved about 500 firearms for S&W, Colt, Winchester plus other works of art.

Here we have the marriage of history, important historical figures, and a world class high condition S&W American revolver, engraved by the master Louis D. Nimschke.

 “THE BLOODIEST 47 ACRES IN AMERICA”

This 1st Model American is one of those old revolvers we wish could talk ! ’cause this one would have something to say !! Serial No. 236X was manufactured in 1870, and found itself in service in the state of Missouri. The prison was known as “THE WALLS” by its inmates, for the stout ! enormous stone walls, high and thick ! It was home to many of the toughest desperados in the old west at various times. Members of the James-Younger gang passed through, like Bill Ryan. John Reno of the infamous Reno Gang, who by the way invented Train Robberies, and the toughest of the worst in Missouri where sent there. Starting in 1838. It was known as “The Bloodiest 47 Acres in America”. Why, over the years it had many murders, (inside the prison) and several inmate riots, which “in the day” were only handled one way, with lead ! THIS American is marked by the Prison, on the top curve of the back strap. MO PY

Serial No. 1287X is in near perfect condition. It has about 99%++ original factory nickel plate finish. There is 99.99% of case color hardening on the hammer and spur trigger. Yes, it has been fired, but probably less than the fingers on your one hand !

In 1870 S&W introduced the FIRST practical Metallic Cartridge Revolver, and it was an immediate success. Quickly, small design changes were implemented, and the 2nd Model was the result. It had a little more “metal” around the trigger pin, and a slotted hammer to insure a tighter lock of the top strap. Otherwise, same as the 1st Model. The American chambered the .44 American cartridge, and had an 8 inch barrel. It found immediate acceptance due to its quick ability to load and unload cartridges, and time was IMPORTANT ! This 2nd Model, Serial No. 1413X, is a totally correct example. It has all the factory applied markings, barrel address etc…and ALL parts are original to the revolver, and are matching in serial (assembly) numbers. The working actions are 100% perfect in all phases and functions. The Walnut grips are smooth, show minimal hand use, and have a fine antique luster and patina. Many famous celebrities of the Old West used this Model, such as : Wyatt Earp (he actually carried a 2nd Model American engraved to the OK Corral fight), Texas Jack Omohundro, Buffalo Bill, Cole Younger, Belle Starr, Dallas Stoudenmire, just to mention a few ! It was a stout reliable revolver, and “FAST” to operate and fire. This one has a unique feature, the back strap is cut for a detachable shoulder stock. The stock used in this case was a ” Key Hole” stock. The attaching end was cut like a key, inserted into the opening, side ways, then turned to lock it into position.

Unfortunately, the stock and American have become separated over the last 140 years. An excellent choice for a collection, a BIG S&W Frontier revolver, and THE FIRST on the Frontier !!