Smith & Wesson Model of 1955 (Pre-Model 25) .45 ACP 5″ DA/SA Revolver, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,780.00
LSB#: LSB250530MG013
Serial Number: S159811
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Model of 1955 (Pre-Model 25)
Year of Manufacture: The serial number places it in production, 1956-1957, and the letter asserts it shipped on August 27, 1959.
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings:
The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “45 CAL MODEL 1955”. The right side of the frame is marked with the four-line “Marcas Registradas” address. The sideplate bears the S&W monogram. The butt is stamped with the serial number “S159811”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a Patridge blade pinned to a serrated ramp base. It has been re-profiled with a swept-back, tapered silhouette. The rear sight is a micrometer-click adjustable square notch in a base integral to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
The grips are Goncalo Alves target stocks with the football relief cut. There are no numbers on the interior. Moderate handling wear is present, including scuffs and surface marks primarily at the butt and left panel. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition:
The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition:
This revolver retains approximately 90% of its original finish. There is holster wear at the muzzle, a prominent turn line on the cylinder that breaks through the finish, and scattered thinning on high edges and the trigger guard. The hammer and trigger have been jeweled. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly in both single and double action. Lockup is tight and timing is proper. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories:
This revolver includes a Smith & Wesson factory letter confirming that serial number S159811 was shipped on August 27, 1959, to Rex Firearms Inc., New York, NY. The letter verifies the original factory configuration as a 5-inch barrel with blued finish, and notes that it was one of nine Model of 1955 revolvers in that shipment, specifically marked “NO CHG FOR CUT DOWN BARRELS.”
Our Assessment:
This Smith & Wesson .45 Hand Ejector Model of 1955—commonly referred to as the Pre-Model 25—is one of the most iconic N-Frame target revolvers ever produced. Born out of feedback from competitive shooters, it was introduced with a heavy 5″ barrel, precision target sights, and a wide, target-style, hammer and trigger, establishing a high-water mark for revolver craftsmanship. Smith & Wesson later transitioned to numerical model designations, with this revolver eventually becoming known as the Model 25.
Factory records confirm this revolver was shipped on August 27, 1959, to Rex Firearms in New York, as one of nine 5″ target models from that batch. The letter also notes “NO CHG FOR CUT DOWN BARRELS”, indicating factory-fitted 5″ tubes—highly desirable for balance and recoil management. With its original blued finish, numbered Goncalo Alves target stocks, and strong bore, this example checks all the boxes for collectors and .45 ACP revolver enthusiasts alike. The jeweled hammer and trigger point to potential use in competition, adding character without compromising authenticity.
On page 195 of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, Supica and Nahas list the 5” variation as “Rare,” referencing the Dave Nowak Collection. If Jim and Richard say it, then it becomes canon. Whether you’re filling a gap in your collection or simply appreciating the elegance of a classic Smith, this ultra-rare Pre-25 delivers. 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.
