Smith & Wesson Model 19-3 Texas Ranger Commemorative 357 Magnum 4” 1973 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,426.00

LSB#: LSB250601SP072

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: Model 19-3 Texas Ranger Commemorative

Serial Number: TR4233

Year of Manufacture: 1973 (Texas Rangers 150th Anniversary Issue)

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 4” Pinned Barrel

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON.” The right side is marked “TEXAS RANGERS S.&W. .357 MAGNUM.” The left side of the frame has the S&W monogram logo. The right sideplate is adorned with a gold-filled Texas Ranger Commission seal marked “STATE OF TEXAS TEXAS RANGER COMMISSION 1823-1973.” The yoke cut is marked with the model designation “MOD. 19-3” and the serial number “TR4233.” The Goncalo Alves presentation target stocks each bear an inlaid Texas Ranger badge medallion.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a forged red ramp blade pinned to a serrated ramped base. The rear sight is a square-notch leaf, adjustable for windage and elevation, with a white outline.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver wears factory Goncalo Alves presentation target stocks with football cut on the right panel, relief cut on the left, and inlaid Texas Ranger badge medallions. The stocks have crisp edges, beautiful figure, and only the most minor handling evidence. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: High Polish Blue with Case Color Hammer & Trigger

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its original metal finish. The factory high polish blue is deep and lustrous, and the forged front sight retains vivid red inlay. The case coloring on the hammer and trigger displays beautiful high color retention. There is only the faintest hint of a turn line, and no notable wear. This revolver appears to have been only factory test-fired. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and crisp. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent to Near New condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up is solid with no play on full lockup. The double-action pull is smooth, and the single-action break is crisp. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is the original blue velvet-lined hardwood presentation case with the Texas Ranger Commission seal embossed in the lid, brass hinges, and fitted interior. (The original sleeve is included.) The lining shows only minor impressions from contact points but remains vibrant and intact.

Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson Model 19-3 Texas Ranger Commemorative is a standout among special editions, merging the proven Combat Magnum platform with the legacy of the Texas Rangers—one of America’s most storied law enforcement agencies. Produced in 1973 to mark the Rangers’ 150th anniversary, these revolvers were built with the same mechanical excellence as duty Model 19s but enhanced with presentation-grade polish, gold-filled markings, commemorative medallions, and dedicated TR-prefix serial numbers.

This example, serial TR4233, remains in exceptional condition—likely only factory fired—retaining nearly all of its deep, high-polish blue and vivid case colors. The forged front sight, target sighting system, and crisp Goncalo Alves presentation stocks underscore S&W’s craftsmanship at the height of the pinned-and-recessed era.

For the collector, this revolver offers both historical significance and pristine condition, making it equally suited for centerpiece display in its original presentation case or as part of a high-grade S&W collection. With its combination of mechanical excellence, aesthetic appeal, and commemorative importance, this Texas Ranger Model 19-3 stands as a fitting tribute to 150 years of Ranger service and Smith & Wesson quality. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.