Lot #265
Lot #267

Lot 266: Smith & Wesson 44 DA Revolver 44 Russian

Extremely Rare Only Blue Finished Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Wesson Favorite Revolver with Factory Letter

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: November 30, 2012

Lot 266: Smith & Wesson 44 DA Revolver 44 Russian

Extremely Rare Only Blue Finished Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Wesson Favorite Revolver with Factory Letter

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: November 30, 2012

Estimated Price: $9,500 - $15,000

Extremely Rare Only Blue Finished Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action Wesson Favorite Revolver with Factory Letter

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: 44 Double Action
Type: Revolver
Gauge: 44 Russian
Barrel: 5 inch solid rib
Finish: blue
Grip: walnut
Stock:
Item Views: 12016
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 65
Class: Antique
Description:

Manufactured circa 1882-1883 with a total production of only about 1,000 and was originally designed in 1882 for the Russian Government. Samples of the revolver were sent to Russia in 1882, however a contract never materialized and the revolvers were kept in stock until 1888 when they were added to the price list. These revolvers were manufactured to D.B. Wesson's specifications and the most unusual was the machining done to change the balance of the revolver. This was accomplished by removing the excess metal, thus reducing the weight of the revolver. There is a milled groove cut into the top of the rib and sides of the frame below the cylinder. The cylinder was also lightened by reducing the front portion of the diameter. Due to the groove in the top of the rib, the marking was moved to the cylinder. The accompanying factory letter signed by Smith & Wesson Historian and author Roy Jinks verifies that this revolver was delivered to Shoverling, Dale & Gale, New York City for an export order, and that it had a 5 inch barrel, factory checkered walnut grips and blue finish. The letter further states "This is the only Wesson Favorite that I can remember checking that was originally shipped with a blue finish." The cylinder flutes are marked with the address and patent dates. The matching serial number is marked on the butt, rear face of the cylinder, barrel latch and barrel. Pinned bead type blade front sight and notch rear sight, blue finish with casehardened hammer and trigger, and fitted with checkered walnut grips with a diamond pattern around the screws.

Rating Definition:

Very fine. The revolver retains 30% original blue finish concentrated in the protected areas and on the trigger guard with a smooth gray and mottled brown patina on the balance. Much of the original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are also very good with some scattered minor dings and crisp checkering. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. An extremely rare and documented one-of-a-kind Wesson Favorite finished in blue. A must have for any advanced Smith & Wesson collection.



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