April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2023
This is an exceptional S&W No. 3 revolver, with provenance tying the gun to Charles Alonzo King, who was one of the principle designers of the No. 3 alongside with Daniel Wesson. The revolver is completely in-the-white, and has had never been fitted for the front sight or the grips. It has the traditional No. 3 features and has the additional frame pin above the trigger guard. No legends or proofs are present anywhere on the gun. Accompanied by extensive documentation including a notarized statement from John Danaher, a 28-year FBI Special Agent and grandson of Charles Alonzo King, testifying that the gun descended through the family, originally kept by Charles when he left S&W in 1874 to become the superintendent for Parker. The notarized statement is dated February 20th, 2008. Other interesting documentation includes a check from George Leiper dated 2014 and memo'd "R", presumably for "revolver"; a receipt from Warren T. Lewis for George Leiper dated a week later for the revolver, and extensive photocopies of books where King's patents and gun improvements are discussed. King is credited with numerous significant patents from both the early days of Parker and S&W No. 3, including the No. 3's ejector system, which he shared with Daniel Wesson. CONDITION: Very good overall as never finished. Some minor handling marks and dings acquired from age, none serious, and some congealed grease in protected areas, possibly factory. One area of delamination in the steel on right side of frame, visible toolmarks throughout. Mechanically fine, bore is very good with strong rifling and some light frosting, mostly towards chamber. An exceptional example and opportunity to acquire an important Smith & Wesson.
Paperwork
Extensive Provenance, including affidavit