This is a good example of the Smith and Wesson .32 caliber rimfire Number 2 Army. These were made from 1861 to 1874. The self-contained, waterproof cartridges made them popular with Civil War officers, travelers, and westerners. Custer owned a pair, as did Wild Bill Hickok. The state of Kentucky even bought a few from Kittredge of Cincinnati that were issued out to enlisted men in the 7th Kentucky Cavalry. The serial number on this one is 10251, giving it an early war date, and it comes with a 2015 dated letter from the Smith and Wesson Company historian placing it in a January 22, 1863, shipment to J.W. Storrs, Co. of New York City, the S&W agent from 1858 to 1869.

The barrel marking, SMITH & WESSON. SPRINGFIELD, MASS. is sharp. The serial number is clear. The octagonal barrel preserves good blue overall with some wear along the edges and some dings, mostly along the lower edges. The cylinder and frame shade towards plum brown with some freckling to the surface. The screw heads show thin blue. The rosewood grips are tight, and have good color, but show a sizeable chip out at the upper right adjacent to the frame, and wear to the lower front edge at the butt. The mechanics are good.

This is a good, representative example of a very popular Civil War side arm that would look good in an officer’s display or even an early west collection.  [sr] [ph:m]

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