Smith & Wesson Model 27-3 50th Anniversary .357 Magnum
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $794.00
This Smith & Wesson Model 27-3 is the 50th Anniversary Commemorative edition of the .357 Magnum, numbered 735 of 2,500 and featuring product code 101021. Built in 1985 and now classified as C&R eligible, this revolver showcases the fine blued finish, checkered topstrap, and presentation-grade Goncalo Alves grips that define the Model 27 lineage. With approximately 97% finish remaining and a bright, sharp bore, it stands as an excellent example of this limited-production commemorative.
Identification
MMA#: 251115SW019
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 27-3, .357 Magnum 50th Anniversary Commemorative, 0735 of 2500, Product Code 101021
Serial Number: REG0735
Year of Manufacture: 1985 (ATF C&R)
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Double- and single-action revolver with 6-shot swing-out cylinder
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights / Optics
Front sight: serrated ramped blade on an integral rib base.
Rear sight: square-notch micrometer-adjustable sight on checkered top strap.
The rib, top strap, and sight base are factory checkered for glare reduction.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition
Two-piece smooth Goncalo Alves presentation stocks with medallions, speedloader cut, and presentation cut. Light handling marks only. Overall condition: Excellent.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
This revolver retains about 97% of its blued finish. Minor finish marks at the muzzle, a cylinder turn line, light oxidation spots on the hammer, and faint thinning on the trigger guard. Sharp screw heads and clear markings. Overall condition: Fine Plus.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Bright with sharp rifling. Small areas of light surface erosion. Rated 9/10.
Mechanics: Functions correctly. Cylinder lockup shows light side-to-side play when the trigger is depressed. Not test-fired; cleaning recommended before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Includes wood presentation case with key, serial-matching commemorative registration card, and matching envelope.
Our Assessment
The Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum—first introduced as the “Registered Magnum”—stands as one of the most historically significant American revolvers ever produced. Born from the need for greater stopping power during the high-crime Prohibition era, the .357 Magnum cartridge and the N-frame revolver built around it quickly became icons of durability, precision, and law enforcement utility. Early examples were ordered to customer specification and shipped with registration certificates, earning their famed name.
This 27-3 marks the 50th Anniversary of the .357 Magnum and retains all the hallmarks of the line: deep polished bluing, checkered rib and top strap, finely fitted presentation stocks, and S&W’s renowned DA/SA trigger quality. With only 2,500 commemoratives produced, examples like this remain highly sought after by Smith & Wesson collectors. If you missed acquiring one decades ago, this is an excellent opportunity to add a limited-edition Model 27 to your collection.
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