S&W Model 1; 3rd change;question?

[tjpopkin]

I am currently looking at various older S&W's and found a Model 1 2nd change. I saw this gun on GB and wondered if someone can give me guidance? The owner did not know what a factory letter was, much less if the engraving could have been original. My presumption is it is not.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=100210992

Terry

 

[tjpopkin]

I am currently looking at various older S&W's and found a Model 1 2nd change. I saw this gun on GB and wondered if someone can give me guidance? The owner did not know what a factory letter was, much less if the engraving could have been original. My presumption is it is not.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=100210992

Terry

 

[cgt4570]

Very nice eye candy, but from the pics, I'm pretty sure it's been re-nickeled over some pitting and some buffing has been done. Also, if I remember right, the hammer and trigger should be case color, not nickel. I'm not familiar enough with factory engraving to tell you if it's factory or not. Like you said, a letter would tell you. I can say say that the engraving is of better quality than some of the early aftermaket stuff I've seen.

Chris