Only approximately 310 Smith & Wesson New Model 3 Australian revolvers were manufactured, all with nickel finish, 7 inch barrels, and detachable shoulder stocks. They were shipped to Australia for the Southern Australian Colonial Police and carried in holster and scabbard on horseback in the wild Australian outback. The first shipment was for 250 revolvers and was sent to Smith & Wesson's large New York distributor M.W. Robinson for the Australian Government on December 14, 1881. Mr. Robinson had received an order for 250 Smith & Wesson New Model 3 revolvers from the Australian Government earlier in the year. The revolver has the two-line address/patent dates barrel rib marking, matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch, and an Australian broad arrow proof stamped on the butt. The leather flap holster is marked with an Australian broad arrow proof along with the rack number "109" on the inside of the flap. The correct walnut shoulder stock is numbered "12862," ten digits away from the gun's serial number (12872), and marked with an Australian broad arrow. The original Australian leather stock scabbard is stamped with the rack number "140" and an Australian broad arrow on the inside. Consecutively serial numbered to the previous lot.

Excellent, retaining 95% original nickel finish with some cleaned pitting on the barrel, otherwise scattered flaking. 70% original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are fine with minor handling marks and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent. The holster and stock scabbard are very good showing flex wear and minor handling/storage marks. The stitching is tight overall. The stock is fine with 70% original nickel plating remaining on the attaching iron and some minor handling marks on the walnut. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection