.44 Model 3 Russian Third Model

[CaptYak]

I would like some help placing a value on this revolver. The factory letter states its a .44 Model 3 Russian Third Model a.k.a New Model Russian. Here's the twist, Roy Jinks states that the serial # indicates its a Reissue Variation that was shipped on August 13, 1877 to M.W. Robinson, New York City, N.Y., who was S&W's largest distributor, that it was 1 of 40 shipped and that it is one of only 9,000 made. Also pictured is its original holster.

 

[glowe]

Since you have the factory letter, you have all the general information about the Model 3, as well as the specifics on your revolver. What did the letter state as to the original finish - was it nickel or blued?

For me, a reissue barrel address does not add value. There were a total of 60,000 of this model manufactured, with 9000 Reissue and 13,500 Commercial production. The Russians with Cyrillic markings, even though the majority of those manufactured, command higher values.

An interesting note on valuing these guns can be seen when looking at the stated value of Second Model Russian Commercial guns. A total of 85,000 were manufactured, but only 6200 Commercial guns were built, yet the value in many gun books is lower than the main production guns for Russia. It is assumed, of course that there are few Russian contract guns surviving in the collector's market.

Jim Supica makes no comment on any value adder for commercial/reissue guns and estimates the following: Fine - $2000; VG - $1250; Good - $950. The Standard Catalog of S&W was printed in 2006, so a little out of date, but still an accurate source of information.

Hope this helps.

 

[gkitch]

The holster looks nice! It would certainly add some value.
I'm also curious if the factory letter indicates a nickle finish?

 

[CaptYak]

Yes, it has a nickel finish as indicated in the factory letter. Factory records indicate it was shipped with a 6.5 inch barrel, nickel finish, butt swivel and smooth walnut grips. The engraving on the backstrap was not done at the factory.

 

[glowe]

So what is engraved on the backstrap?

 

[CaptYak]

The initials R.D.M.

 

[handejector]

GREAT outfit.
Love it!

 

[opoefc]

Auction sales, in the US of similar revolvers this year, show a range of $2,400 to $3,800. I would add about 5% for the holster value & letter. As said above, low production and scarcity, is not always recognized by collectors when it comes to firearms, so market prices reflect that. Ed.

 

[Masterpiece]

The initials R.D.M.

CaptYak,

I can't believe no one has asked as yet, but was any provenance provided for the Revolver when you acquired it?? If so, do you have any idea who "R.D.M." was??

By the way, as the "R.D.M." looks to be Finely Hand-Engraved, I'd be willing to bet the engraving work, even though Roy must have made mention that it wasn't "Factory" in the Letter, was commissioned by M.W. Robinson for the Original Owner when he/she originally purchased it!! Reason being, M.W. Robinson had many S&W's engraved and/or inscribed by the Fine Firearms Engravers that worked in NYC during that time period!! The Holster may have also been provided by them as well!! Very Nice Rig you have there!! Congrats!!