Smith & Wesson S&W Model 659 9mm 4” DA/SA Pistol Gino Cargnel Engraved
SOLD FOR: $1,625
WOA#: WY231010CFM007
Make: Smith & Wesson, Engraved by Gino Cargnel
Model: 659, Early Model with round trigger guard
Serial Number: A842916
Year of Manufacture: 1971-1988
Caliber: 9mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single-Double Action, Exposed Hammer
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “A842916” / Model 659”. The right side of the frame is marked with a Smith & Wesson trademark Monogram. This pistol is 100% engraved. In front of the trigger on the frame is marked “G CARGNEL.”. Both grip panels are marked “R. NORTH / S.W. 659”.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with red insert. The rear sight is a rectangular notch sight dovetailed to the slide with elevation and windage adjustment.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 2 piece R. North marked Ivory grips custom fitted for the Model 659 with mag release button cut out and trigger finger cutouts. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition with some light handling wear. The top rear of both panels have minor chips from the ambidextrous safety.
Magazine Quantity and Condition: One matched 14rd 9mm Magazine with engraved baseplate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless
Finish Originality: Original, Engraved by Gino Cargnel
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The screw heads are sharp. There is a small freckle of verdigris on the right side of the slide on a portion of the engraving. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition. Please see photos for a better understanding of this pistol’s condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Has magazine disconnect.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a total of one magazine and a Bianchi leather holster. The Holster rates in Very Good condition. There is some good amount of verdigris all around the snaps.
Our Assessment: The Model 659 is a part of Smith & Wesson’s famed 59 series, which was first introduced in the 1970s. This series was a pioneering line of semi-automatic pistols from Smith & Wesson, known for their double-stack magazine design, which was a significant innovation at the time, offering a higher capacity compared to many contemporary models.
The 659 itself is a stainless steel, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, notable for its robust construction and reliability. It features a double-action mechanism and typically comes with a 14-round magazine. The 659 was designed with both law enforcement and civilian markets in mind, offering a balance of firepower and ease of use. It was particularly popular in the 1980s and is often recognized for its distinctive appearance and solid performance.
What sets this Smith & Wesson 659 far apart and above is the craftsmanship of Gino Cargnel. Gino Cargnel was an FN master engraver who would go on to move to America where he worked with Griffin & Howe as well as setting up his own engraving business. The engraving by Cargnel, a true master, transforms the pistol from a functional firearm into a masterclass piece of art. The skill and precision required for such detailed engraving are considerable, and Cargnel’s work is highly regarded in the field.
This engraved Model 659 by Gino Cargnel is not just a firearm; it’s a treasured collector’s piece, blending the functional design and reliability of Smith & Wesson with the aesthetic and personalized touch of a renowned master engraver. This represents a piece of firearm history, reflecting the era’s style and the individual artistry of gunsmithing. For collectors and enthusiasts, such a piece offers not just the practical benefits of a well-made pistol but also the unique appeal of a custom, artistically superior firearm. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
