Historic World War II U.S. Navy Shipped Smith & Wesson Victory Model Double Action Revolver, Issued to Fighting Squadron One in the Pacific, with Factory Letter and Archival Documentation
A strong World War II U.S. Navy–documented revolver, this example offers exceptional collector appeal through its factory letter, archival serial-number documentation, and recorded issue to Fighting Squadron One (VF-1), a unit tied to major Pacific Theater operations.
- Includes factory letter documenting military contract history
- Factory letter confirms this revolver was part of a large military contract order
- Shipped May 14, 1943
- Recorded destination:
- U.S. Navy Fleet and Industrial Supply Center
- Oakland, California
- Includes a grouping of photocopied archival records
- Archival records include a cover sheet by the Archival Research Group
- Archival Research Group cover sheet notes the documents show this revolver recorded by serial number as an issued small arm to Fighting Squadron One (VF-1) in 1943
- Records indicate the revolver was checked back into general stores by October 1943
- VF-1 wartime association adds significant historical interest:
- During the period in question, VF-1 was stationed on the USS Yorktown and at Kaneohe Naval Air Station
- VF-1 later participated in the Battles of Saipan and the Philippine Sea
- VF-1 also took part in the liberation of Guam
- VF-1 participated in a number of raids
- Fixed sights for the simple, rugged military configuration expected of the period
- Standard commercial markings on the barrel and frame
- Top strap marked:
- “(bomb) U.S. PROPERTY G.H.D.”
- Matching serial numbers on:
- Barrel
- Cylinder
- Frame
- Matching assembly numbers on:
- Frame
- Crane
- Fitted with a lanyard swivel, a desirable military feature for secure carry
- Fitted with smooth hardwood grips
With documented U.S. Navy shipment, serial-numbered archival issue records to VF-1, and matching-number components, this revolver is an especially appealing World War II military sidearm for collectors seeking provenance tied to Pacific Theater naval aviation.
Very fine, with 85% of the original finish, with some thinning on the barrel and grip straps, bright edges, and minor handling marks and spotting. Some denting present on the lower front edge of the grip frame. Grips are fine, with mild dings and scuffs. The ejector rod is slightly bent, interfering with ejector function, minor timing issues, otherwise mechanically functions.
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