Manufactured in 1881 on the first day of production. In fact, this is the second of the approximately 15,340 .44 Double Action First Model Revolvers manufactured by S&W. Although cataloged until 1913, all frames were manufactured prior to 1899, making the entire production of this model classified as an antique for ATF purposes. The highly desirable, extremely low serial number "2" is stamped on the butt, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch. The barrel rib has the two-line address/patent dates marking. While not the most famous of the Western frontier sidearms, the .44 DA nevertheless had a following. Outlaw and James-Younger Gang associate Belle Starr was known to carry one. At the time of his death from a bullet to the back of the head while playing dice at the Acme Saloon in El Paso on August 19, 1895, notorious Texas gunfighter John Wesley Hardin was packing a nickel plated version of this big double action.

Fine, retaining 40% original nickel finish with a smooth gray patina on the balance and a few patches of old slight corrosion. Some original case colors remain on the hammer. The grips are fine showing typical age cracking, minor handling evidence and attractive color and grain. Mechanically excellent. This serial number 2 .44 Double Action Revolver is a must have for the serious S&W collector. When will you find a lower serialized .44 Double Action? Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.