1889 Smith & Wesson .44 Double Action First model

[Gunguy68]

Hey guys, I'm new to this forum, hoping i could get a little bit of help with pricing this revolver.

Its a S&W authenticated 1889 Tip up revolver, absolute stunner.
Double action First Model, 44 S&W Russian.

Just trying to get an idea of how much money I should have ready to buy it. Looks cool, rare, and I gotta have it at a deal.

 

[mrcvs]

From the one photograph provided, it doesn’t look reblued. Several other photographs in natural lighting would be helpful.

Let’s start with what’s the asking price? $1250 would be a bargain, actual value these days, if not reblued, $2000 or a slight bit more.

 

[Schof45]

The auction description says:
The firearm that is being sold has been sent to the Smith & Wesson for repair or restoration, A star marking has been added to the serial number reading as 23714*
so it has most likely been reblued.

 

[iby]

44

From the one picture and Schof45's post I think you should take a deep breath and do some googling of known examples and prices before you buy

 

[mrcvs]

The auction description says:
The firearm that is being sold has been sent to the Smith & Wesson for repair or restoration, A star marking has been added to the serial number reading as 23714*
so it has most likely been reblued.

Where did you get this from?

 

[mrcvs]

Soft edges. No visible logo. Appears to be a non-factory re-blue. Need better pictures of the butt, barrel address, side plate, etc.

Letter states grips were originally checkered walnut.

Auctioneer is using the term "authenticated" as an enticement.

How can you see any of this from the one out of focus photograph provided?

If reblued at the factory, then it is worth about 85% of $2000, or $1700. If a non factory reblue, with soft edges, $800 or $900 might very well be tops.

 

[bigwagon]

It wasn't too hard to find. The photos aren't great, but there's no question it's been refinished. It's definitely one I'd want to see in person before dropping any large sum of money.

 

[tarro3220]

Sold for $1750 + 20% premium = $2100 before shipping and taxes.

 

[mrcvs]

Sold for $1750 + 20% premium = $2100 before shipping and taxes.

Way more than it’s actually worth, since likely refinished again after the factory refinish.

 

[iby]

But.... it is "extremely Rare" (only 50+k made) and has a lovely * on the butt and comes with a Factory letter for a different gun

 

[Exmilcop]

Here's a shocker for you guys. Up here in the Great White North, that pistol would sell for upwards of $4000. Canadian pesos. I don't know what a "good" bore is to the auction house which is why I like the "10" scale. I bought this one off a member here for around $2400. It too has the star after the serial number and was refurbed by S&W Aug. 1921. The bore is so-so but the mechanics are excellent. The foresight was my own creation to accurize it.

 

[Gunguy68]

Hey guys, thank you for all the insight on the 1889. I was quickly out of the running when it sold Saturday. The letter serial number and gun number defiantly didn't match (last number was different). I guy there told me that typo's happen it likely could have been one. The only way to be sure was to send again for another letter. It seems like the magic number on one of these is going to be around 1500-2000. Thank you again my friends.