September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
Manufactured in Eibar, Spain circa 1880s by the Orbea brothers, very closely replicating a Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian Model revolver. After receiving a governmental "privilege of introduction" to produce Smith & Wesson-style revolvers in Spain, the firm began production around 1878 and continued into the 1880s. This extraordinary presentation grade example features full nickel finish and attractive New York style foliate scroll engraving over punch dot backgrounds with nearly full coverage on the sides of the frame, extending onto the cylinder and top strap above the cylinder. The ribbed barrel is rolled with a 1-line Orbea address. Pinned half moon front sight and v-notch rear. Classic finger spur trigger guard. Lanyard loop round butt mounted with 2-piece checkered hard rubber "OH" monogrammed grips. Revolver is accompanied by a matching walnut shoulder stock, the nickel finished mount engraved en suite. The last 2 digits of the serial number are observed on the cylinder, inside of the right grip, stock mount, and stock mounting hardware. CONDITION: Fine. Revolver retains the majority of its factory nickel, areas of the barrel, trigger guard, and stock hardware developing a brown patina. Engraving remains largely sharp and legible. Hammer displays significant portions of fading case colors. Grips have shrunk slightly and have scattered handling marks but are otherwise very fine. Stock has scattered impressions but is also very good overall. Strong, bright bore. Crisp mechanics. An outstanding deluxe period copy of a Smith & Wesson No. 3.
Caliber/Bore
.44 S&W Russian
Manufacturer
Orbea Hermanos