Smith & Wesson .38 Caliber “New Departure” with Original Box

Smith & Wesson Revolver – .38 Safety "New Departure"

Manufacture: 1890–1898 – Caliber: .38 S&W – Features: Original box and nickel finish.

A rare Smith & Wesson .38 Safety Third Model black-powder revolver; a collector's piece retaining its original nickel finish and perfectly matching period box.

History

The Smith & Wesson .38 Safety Third Model—also known as the .38 Safety "New Departure"—is one of the most iconic American pocket revolvers of the late 19th century. Approximately 50,000 units were manufactured between 1890 and 1898. It features a double-action, hammerless mechanism specifically designed for concealed carry. Chambered for the .38 S&W black-powder cartridge, this model remains a classic among Smith & Wesson collector's items.

Our model

This Smith & Wesson .38 Safety Third Model comes with its rare original box, which perfectly matches the firearm as evidenced by the period-correct side label. The set is a true asset for any collector. This version features the short 3¼-inch barrel, the most compact configuration in the series. The metal components retain approximately 96% of their original nickel finish, showing only slight, localized wear on the cylinder. The trigger still displays its original case-hardening, while the trigger guard retains its blued finish. The markings are crisp and perfectly legible. The serial number (82XXX), found on various parts, confirms this is a matching-numbers example of the Third Model. The original grips are in excellent condition and fit perfectly.

Mechanically, the revolver is in excellent working order. The lock-up is rock-solid, with no play or barrel-cylinder gap. Opening and cartridge ejection operate smoothly. The 3¼-inch .38 S&W barrel features a mirror-bright bore with crisp rifling and only slight signs of use.

This Smith & Wesson .38 Safety Third Model, complete with its original box, is a particularly attractive collector's piece among late 19th-century American black-powder revolvers.

The firearm comes with its official classification certificate (Category D), issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.