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Impressive History of the S&W Model 59

The Model 59 is widely regarded as America’s original “Wonder Nine” — the first high-capacity (double-stack) 9mm semi-automatic pistol produced in the United States.

It evolved directly from the earlier Model 39 (introduced in the mid-1950s), which itself was Smith & Wesson’s first successful American-made double-action 9mm. The Model 39 saw significant use by U.S. Navy SEALs in Vietnam, including specialized suppressed “Hush Puppy” variants designed for quiet work. In the late 1960s the Navy requested higher-capacity versions (inspired by the 13-round Browning Hi-Power magazine), leading S&W to develop experimental double-stack prototypes.

The commercial Model 59 hit the market in 1971 with a 14-round staggered magazine (14+1 total), an aluminum alloy frame, blued carbon-steel slide, DA/SA trigger, and magazine disconnect safety. At roughly 27–30 oz unloaded and just over 7.5 inches long, it offered nearly double the capacity of the Model 39 while remaining relatively compact.

Key points that made it historically significant:

• First U.S.-made double-stack 9mm pistol.
• Arrived years before the Beretta 92, SIG P220, and CZ 75 reached American shooters in volume.
• Quickly adopted by multiple police departments in the 1970s as agencies began moving away from revolvers (examples include early adopters in Massachusetts and Las Vegas Metro).
• Appeared in popular culture of the era (including the original Starsky & Hutch).
• Direct ancestor of the entire second-generation 459 series and the later third-generation 5900 series pistols.

 Your serial number A372475 falls in the mid-1970s range (approximately 1976–1977)

Smith & Wesson Model 59 9mm semi-automatic pistol, serial A372475.

Purchased new and showing very low round count if any at all. Classic early double-stack 9mm with the original 14-round magazines (both marked 9MM S&W). Blued finish, checkered grips, and the distinctive Model 59 profile.

This is the original high-capacity S&W 9mm that set the standard before the 5900 series. Clean example of a true classic that still runs reliably.

Includes the two factory-style magazines shown.

Local pickup preferred in the Concord / Charlotte area. FFL transfers available. We take offers, trade-ins, and can do layaway.

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