Smith & Wesson (S&W) Model 59 4” 9mm Semi Auto Nickel Pistol MFD 1973-74

SOLD FOR: $1,325.00

LSB#:  LSB251210MB054

Make:  Smith & Wesson

Model:  59

Serial Number:  A176435

Year of Manufacture:  1973-1974

Caliber:  9mm

Action Type:  Semi-Auto, Hammer Fired, fed by detachable magazines. 

Markings:  The left side of the slide is marked, “SMITH & WESSON” with the 4 line Marcas Registradas address.  The left side of the frame is marked, “A176435 / MODEL 59”.  The right side of the slide has the S&W trade mark logo.  The right side of the slide is marked “PAT’S PENDING”.

Barrel Length:  4” 

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch.  

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The grip is a two piece checkered polymer with the S&W logo stamped on either side.  There are minor scratches throughout and a few larger scratches atop the left grip.  The aluminum grip frame is serrated on both the front strap and the back strap.  There are no chips or cracks.  The checkering is sharp. Overall the grips rate at a Very Good condition.  

Magazine Quantity & Condition:  This pistol includes 2 14 round double stack magazines and its original box.

Type of Finish:  Nickel.

Finish Originality:  Original.

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp.  There is stubborn fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.  The feed ramp is smooth.

Overall Condition:  This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish.  There are faint  handling marks throughout.  The action has light wear from use.  The markings are crisp, and the screw heads are lightly tooled.  Overall, this handgun rates a Fine Condition.  

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly.  The magazine cutoff works as designed.  We did not fire this handgun.  As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. 

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:  This pistol comes with 2 magazines.

Our Assessment:  Originally a designee for the U.S. Navy as a hi-cap replacement for their S&W Model 39, the Smith & Wesson Model 59 is a semi-automatic pistol manufactured by the renowned American firearms company, Smith & Wesson. Introduced in 1971, the Model 59 was one of the first pistols to feature a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger mechanism combined with a high-capacity magazine, making it a groundbreaking firearm in the handgun market at the time. 

One of the original wondernines, the Smith & Wesson Model 59 played a significant role in popularizing double-action semi-automatic pistols with high-capacity magazines.  While it faced competition from other manufacturers over the years, the Model 59 remained a popular choice among shooters for its reliability, shootability, and innovative design.  It paved the way for subsequent Smith & Wesson pistol models and contributed to the evolution of modern handgun technology. 

This particular Model 59 is a well-cared for, nickel-plated, first-generation Smith & Wesson.  It shows no signs of corrosion.  It has seen both a fair amount of use and diligent care.  Please see our photos. 

-C.B..