A rare and beautiful piece.

[floridaboy]

I saw something pretty nice at a local shop yesterday.
A S&W Model 3, in 44 russian. Looked like a 4"barrell, no rust or pitting, bore bright and shining, lands as sharp as in my model 24. Original grips, and what looked like the original factory nickel finish. The nickel showed very, very little wear. It's pretty pricey, but I want it!
Any ideas as to value? I saw nothing even close on Gunbroker.

 

[Walkalong]

It's pretty pricey, but I want it!

Well then buy it, or tell me who to call.

 

[Old Fuff]

You weren't too specific. A "model 3" could be a Russian, or a "New Model." I will presume you were looking at a "New Model Russian," made from 1878 to 1912. However remember the devil is in the details. A better description would help.

If this revolver is factory original (not refinished) and the 4" barrel is numbered to the gun, and has not been shortened from the standard 6 1/2" length, you have a big winner.

The basic gun, as you described it, would be worth around five to 6 thousand dollars. But to that you can add an additional 50 to 100 percent for the 4-inch barrel (If and only if a factory letter from Roy Jinks at S&W confirms that it is original). That would bring the potential value up to $10,000 to $12,000 or more. Otherwise it would be worth a fraction of those numbers.

 

[Beagle-zebub]

When you say "pricey," what do you mean? I'm curious as to what something like that goes for.

 

[jt1]

S&W, a bargain at any price!

 

[floridaboy]

I'm going back tomorrow or Tuesday to get the serial number, and examine it more closely.
Fuff, the barrel length looks original, the front sight seems to be correct and not a replacement. I have a copy of Roy Jinks book for reference. On page 94, there is a pic of a New Model 3 with rare 3.5" barrel. It looks exactly like that, but I am pretty sure the barrel is 4". The nickel looks to be almost perfect. I'm going to bring my surefire light with me when I go back to look closer. And while I think it is pricey, it's not close to $5000.00 The wife might have to accept it following me home someday soon.

 

[Old Fuff]

I checked the picture you cited, and they did make a few New Model Russian's with 4" barrels.

If you obtain the serial number I would call S&W and ask to speak with Roy Jinks. With luck he might be around. Explain the circumstances, and ask him if he's check the serial number against the records to confirm the finish and barrel length - with the understanding that if you got the gun you'd order a letter later. It is imparative that you act quickly, but not too quickly unless the price is low enough to still be in the ballpark if it turns out that the barrel was shortened from a longer length. One possible but not certain indicator is if the markings on the barrel rib are not centered, or partly cut off at the front sight. Also look and see if the barrel latch is numbered to match the gun. To further confuse the issue, four-inch barrels made for the Double Action .44 Russian could be, and sometimes are now, fitted to the N.M. Russian frame. These of course would be correctly marked on the rib.

 

[floridaboy]

Fuff, Just had another look at the old smith. s/n is 21968, on the rear face of the cylinder. I could not find any others, but the light is not real good in this shop. The barrel sure looks to be original, the markings are not cut off and are completely legible. Last patent date shown is may of 1880. Mr Jinks is not in right now, but I have left a message asking him to call me. Any input you can offer is very greatly appreciated.

 

[Old Fuff]

The serial number should be stamped on:

The bottom of the butt (this is "the" serial number). If the number isn't there a red flag should go up. The number on the cylinder (21,968) would date around 1890, but the cylinder may not be original to the frame.

Also look for the serial number on: Rear face of the frame cut in the barrel's top strap - 0n the bottom of the barrel catch - Inside the side plate.

You may find the serial number on the underside of one of the stocks, and also there may be markings on the side of the frame under the grips indicating a factory rework or refinishing. It is possible, but not probable, that you'll find the serial number there too.

The cylinder (and barrel) could have come off of a .44 Double Action (numbered from 1 to 53,590 between 1881 to 1913). It is also possible that S&W built the gun using a D.A. barrel assembly, as they would interchange - with fitting.

Patent dates: On the New Model #3 the last date should be July 25, 1871. On the .44 Double Action it would be - May 25, 1880.

Since the frame would seem to lack a serial number, which would be most unusual, you should check out the serial number with Roy, and confirm the finish and barrel length before you lay any money down.

When you go back, take a flashlight and magnifying glass with you!

 

[floridaboy]

OK, Fuff. Went back had had a more detailed look at this old S & W Double Action. All serial numbers match. Lock up and timing are impecable. Nickel shows a few freckles, but is in great shape for over 100 years old. all in all it's in amazing condition. I have not heard from Roy, but he's out until the 12th. What's your opinion as to approximate value? Your help is much appreciated

 

[Old Fuff]

Sorry we have to stall this along so long because of a....

Is Art's Grandma around... ?

Anyway, a worthless piece of....

Concerning the revolver. If you can't reach Roy, and need an estimated value, contact the next best authority (maybe "the" best when it comes to values) - Jim Supica at www.armchairgunshow.com

Or you can send him a message from here - he recently joined The High Road.

According to Jim's latest book (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson - 3rd. Edition) that just came out, a New Model #3 .44 in the condition you describe is worth between $5,000 to $7,500. However a 4" barrel that was confirmed by a factory letter would add 50 to 100 percent to those values. Nickel plate in the condition you describe would make the revolver even more attractive - again if confirmed by a factory letter.

Antique S&W .44 revolvers have been skyrocketing the last few years, and the "best" pieces are not slowing down in value as more collectors contend for fewer available pieces.

I looked at your last post again and noted that you said, S & W Double Action. I was under the impression that it was a, #3 New Model, that would be a single action. As 4' barrels were standard on the double action, the value would be much less. If this is the case the revolver is probably worth around $1,700 to $4,000. Before going any further you need to clear up exactly what this revolver is. If you have Roy's book, History of Smith & Wesson, look on pages 94 and 133 to see the difference.