Antique Smith & Wesson Model No.1-1/2 First Issue

This is an antique Smith & Wesson Model 1-1/2 First Issue (a.k.a. Old Model 1-1/2). S&W produced over 26000 of these revolvers from 1865 to 1868. This is a single action revolver with a spur trigger. This has a 3-1/2” octagon barrel and a 5 shot non-fluted cylinder chambered in .32 rimfire. This revolver retains about 95% of the original finish. The left side of the barrel has a small light spot of pitting. The barrel address reads “SMITH. & WESSON. SPRINGFIELD. MASS. PAT’D. APR. 3RD, 1855. & JULY 5, 1859.” The rosewood grips are in excellent condition and are serial number matching to the revolver. Mechanically in excellent condition with perfect timing and lockup. Zero play in the barrel latch. Smith & Wesson was the first to develop a rimfire cartridge with the .22 rimfire being used in their S&W Model Number 1. The Number 1 was a very successful revolver for Smith & Wesson but also showed a need for a more powerful cartridge. On the eve of the American Civil War Smith & Wesson devolved the .32 rimfire and a 6 shot revolver named the Model 2 to use it in. After the Civil Smith & Wesson recognized that many wanted the power of the .32 but in a revolver that was a little more compact than the Model 2. They developed a 5 shot revolver chambered in .32 rimfire that was in between the size of the Model 1 and the Model 2 which they decided to name the Model 1-1/2. This Smith & Wesson would make a beautiful addition to any antique collection and could easily be a centre piece. This is an antique so no PAL is required for purchase. Buyer must be 18 and able to prove it. Shipping is available at buyers expense. All used firearms should be inspected by a competent gunsmith prior to any form of use.