My FFL just got this and I’m listing it for him here because I believe it belongs with someone that appreciates it instead of just being sold on an auction site.

What would you call this? It is a very early 3rd generation pistol which Mr Roy Jinks has described the 5904, 5906, 4506, etc. versions as “interim AIP”. But, the 5903 (would have been a 359) was not one of the models involved in the Automatic Improvement Program.
(Being a student of the 59 series pistols, I’d like to hear from anyone that has a 3rd gen that starts with TB prefix.)


The box label would show the model as a 4590 and S&W will show it as a Model 5903, product code 104010, that shipped in Oct, 1988, at least a full year before the Model 5903 was cataloged in 1990.

The most interesting thing to me is that it has a flash chromed serrated trigger. This is only the second serrated trigger I have heard of on a 59 series pistol, the other also on a test & evaluation 5903, stamped Model 459.


As you can see by the condition of the plastic stocks, which are the early very flat black ones without the dimple, the pistol is in excellent condition. The anodized aluminum frame is close to flawless also. Had it come with the box (does not) it could be easily described as ANIB.

Asking $750 plus USPS Priority mail shipping to your FFL.
Email best if you have any questions.

More pictures here.

He is an FFL so may consider trades, etc.

No one here wants a 'one of a kind' sample 5903?

There are four of these known to exist and no two have the same attributes.

I'll take it.