Engraved Smith & Wesson S&W .38 Double Action 2nd Model Revolver Antique

SOLD FOR: $1785

LSB#: 210329HE02

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: .38 Double Action 2nd Model

Serial Number: 58277

Year of Manufacture: 1880-1884

Caliber: .38 S&W

Action Type: Single/Double Action Top Break Revolver

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT’D JAN. 17& 24.65 / JULY 11.65 AUG 24 69 JULY 25 71 DEC.2.79 MAY 11 & 25 1880”. The top latch, rear cylinder face, and butt of the grip frame are marked with the serial number. The barrel, frame, and cylinder have scroll, pinstripe, and border engravings.

Barrel Length: 3 1/4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade with a pinned half round front sight blade. There is a “V” notch rear sight built into the top of the latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The smooth grips have light handling wear and light draglines. There is a hairline crack on the right panel down by the bottom. The grips rate in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is lightly worn. There is light erosion and scabbing present.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. The balance of finish shows some bubbles and some spots of finish that have oxidized. There are some draglines and cloudy finish. The most noticeable spots of finish loss are on the backstrap and on the barrel at the cylinder. There are some spots of finish loss that have not oxidized, mostly on the cylinder. There are some spots of thinning and dark discoloration from previous oxidation on the hammer, trigger, and trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp to lightly worn with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with light movement. The double action is smooth and the single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a leather coin purse holster. The holster has some scuffs, scrapes, and a few punctures. The metal has finish loss and oxidation. The holster rates in about Good condition.

Our Assessment: This is an engraved Smith & Wesson .38 Double Action Second Model with a nickel finish and 3 1/4” barrel. The .32 Double Action revolvers were made from 1880 to 1919, and different design changes have resulted in collectors forming five different models in order to distinguish between them. The 2nd Model was different than the 1st mostly in the shape of its sideplate which left more rigidity in the frame. This revolver is in about Very Good overall condition with about 85% of its factory refinish remaining. This is a nice looking Antique revolver and with its matching numbers and engraving, it is sure to be a hit with Antique collectors. Please see our photos and good luck!