Eugene Young Factory Engraved Gold Plated Smith & Wesson First Model Single Shot
$37,500
We are proud to offer for sale the finest known Eugene Young exhibition factory panel scene engraved Smith & Wesson 1st Model Single Shot. One of only 229 Model of 1891s ever built in .32 S&W this exquisite high-art masterpiece is equipped with the rarest 6” barrel, original factory gold plating and truly extraordinary solid factory mother of pearl extension target stocks.
The highlight of the engraving is an incredibly detailed, cut by Eugene Young’s unmistakably delicate hand, panel scene featuring a mounted lone buffalo hunter in chase on the plains. This is framed with meticulous double lined border work offset by the atypical rose and scroll style, only known on a few other factory exhibition engraved Smith & Wesson examples. The right side features gorgeous floral pattern bordered scrollwork with rose and scroll completing the balance. As is common for some exhibition engraved S&W’s, and per S&W Historian Roy Jinks this pistol is open on the records, as are numerous other documented exhibition engraved and World’s Fair displayed examples. In further correspondence with Roy he writes “In my opinion the engraving was completed by Eugene Young after he returned to Springfield to work with his brother Oscar. Hope that this helps. Roy”
The solid pearl grips are particularly spectacular and are made by the factory in similar style to the two screw black rubber extension stocks of the period. Note the pronounced flair of the back horn, classic dished style at the top of the grips and the unmistakable radial groove marks on the inside top edges. The grips are quite substantial and have incredible fire colors. These are the only known pair of pearl target stocks built by the factory for a single shot!
The condition of the gun is truly wonderful in hand, retaining 98%+ of the original gold plating which is bright and untouched showing the faintest muzzle wear and one small spot of worn gold on the right side of the frame. The bore is mint and the mechanical working order is flawless. Bar none the finest example of the model in existence and one that will be a crowning jewel in any collection
Out of stock
