Description
This is not just a revolver; it’s a masterpiece. The Magnificent Patriotic Themed Russel J. Smith Signed Factory Master Engraved and Gold and Silver Inlaid Smith & Wesson Model 53 Double Action Revolver with Case and Extra Cylinder is a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of Russel J. Smith. His name is synonymous with the master engraver for Smith & Wesson, and this revolver, a steel canvas turned into a work of art, is a shining example of his skill. The unique features of this revolver, from the gold and silver inlays to the intricate engravings, will surely captivate any collector or enthusiast.
Rock Island Auction had the great honor of selling a unique piece of revolver inlaid and engraved for the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley, in our August 2023 auction for $199,750. Much like the one made for Elvis, this revolver features a patriotic theme for the American Bicentennial. It includes several motifs used on Elvis’s iconic Model 53. Russel J. Smith turned this magnificent steel canvas into a work of firearms art, making it a one-of-a-kind addition to any collection and a direct link to a significant moment in history. This revolver is not just a piece of art but a tangible connection to the American Bicentennial, a momentous event in our nation’s history.
The barrel features a gold-inlaid front sight, unique geometric designs at the muzzle, and a duo of silver stars flanking the barrel markings inside the gold-inlaid oval border. This is surrounded by a floral scroll with a unique geometric design under the ejector rod, making this revolver a unique piece of firearms art.
The frame displays a matching engraving motif, with a silver inlaid star at the upper front inside a “V” shape with horizontal line engraving. The lower portion above the trigger guard has a gold inlaid wire outline. In contrast, the trigger guard has interlaced line engraving surrounded by light geometric engraving.
Lady Liberty is gold inlaid on her pedestal at Liberty Island on the left side of the frame below the cylinder release. The side plate has a pair of sailing ships with gold hulls and silver sails with “OP SAIL ’76” inlaid in gold next to them. At the top of the back strap is a gold inlaid square border with “76” in stylized numbers. The cylinder displays a spray of floral scroll between the cylinder flutes with a gold inlaid wavy line behind the cylinder flutes and a band at the rear.
This masterpiece, signed ‘by R. J. SMITH’ on the underside of the ejector shroud, is rare. Commemorating the closing of the bicentennial, it includes a hardwood case with a red velvet interior and a matching engraved extra .22 Magnum cylinder. Also included are prints of the engraving patterns for the Elvis Model 53 and this Model 53, with notes stating that motifs (the inlaid stars and dates on the barrel) were borrowed from this revolver to be used on Elvis’s iconic Model 53. With its unique features and historical significance, this revolver is not just a valuable addition to any collection but a potential treasure for any collector.
As the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. approaches, this bicentennial-themed S&W would make for a fitting addition to any Americana collection. This revolver is consecutively numbered to the following lot, another magnificent piece of Russel J. Smith’s magnificent firearms art!
