Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice early Civil War example of a Smith & Wesson .32-caliber rimfire Model 2 Army Revolver, with a 6 inch unshortened barrel. These were very popular as backup weapons for Union officers, used after their percussion revolver's cylinder was spent.

The serial number is 6327, dating the year of production to be approximately early 1862, about a 15% of the way through wartime production. With three pins on the top of the frame and a small serial number, some consider this to be a Model 2, type 3. The rosewood grips are original and have a matching serial number on the inside of the right scale, though the original finish on the outside has worn away. The revolver has a lovely aged dark gray patina overall, with some areas of the original blued finish still present, giving it a great look.

It still has the original Smith & Wesson address marking nicely marked on top of the barrel rib:

The patent information on the cylinder has completely worn away, as is usually seen on early examples such as this. It also does not have any assembly number noted under the grip or elsewhere, which is correct for an early example such as this.

Due to the long service this example saw, it unfortunately does not cycle at present, as the hand does not engage the cylinder ratchet due to wear. The cylinder stop / rear sight on the top strap is broken off to the rear of the third frame pin as well. The bore is in good condition, with clear lands and grooves and a partly bright finish. There are a few spots of fouling and oxidation.

Revolvers with serial numbers under 35,731 are considered to be civil war guns since they were manufactured before May 1st, 1865. All are 32-caliber rimfire with a six shot non-fluted cylinder. All were manufactured with rosewood grips and blue or nickel-plated finishes. The barrels are marked on top with the manufacturer and patent dates are stamped on the cylinder. Most were made with 6 or 5 inch barrels, with 4 available as a special order.

According to published sources, 77,155 Model 2 Army revolvers were made. To date, the serial numbers on observed specimens have not substantiated this figure, 76,642 being the highest number noted. Unfortunately, the Smith & Wesson factory records for this period are incomplete and do not give a comprehensive picture of production.

This is a rare chance to own a historically significant gun in good display condition!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: c.1862
Caliber: .32cal
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Overall Length: 11 inches
Action: Single Action 
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.