Smith & Wesson Model 59 (First Generation) 9mm DA/SA, 4 in Barrel, 14+1 Capacity, Aluminum-Alloy Frame — Late A-Prefix (1979–1980)
This first-generation Smith & Wesson Model 59 is a U.S.-made, full-size, double-stack 9mm service pistol from the late A-prefix production period (circa 1979–1980). It pairs a 4-inch carbon-steel barrel and slide with a lightweight aluminum-alloy frame and a 14+1 capacity, reflecting the early Wonder Nine era when the Model 59 saw wide law-enforcement adoption. This example features DA/SA operation with an ambidextrous slide-mounted safety/decocker and a magazine disconnect safety.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The pistol presents in good to very good shape with minor, superficial scratches and blemishes from prior handling and use.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 59 (First Generation) pistol
- 1x 14-round double-column steel magazine
The Model 59 launched Smith & Wesson’s double-stack 9mm lineage and became a hallmark service pistol of its time. This first-generation example retains the core features that defined the platform: DA/SA trigger operation, an ambidextrous slide-mounted safety/decocker, and a magazine disconnect safety.
Construction balances durability and carry weight with a carbon-steel slide over an aluminum-alloy frame. The 4-inch barrel and full-size dimensions support controllability, while black checkered plastic grip panels with S&W medallions provide a secure hold.
Sight setup includes a ramped blade front that is integral to the slide and a low-profile square-notch rear, paired with rear cocking serrations for solid slide manipulation. A spurred hammer and a left-side push-button magazine release round out the controls.
Internally, the pistol uses a Browning-type tilting-barrel system. This late A-prefix production window (circa 1979–1980) aligns with the period when the Model 59 saw broad use among U.S. law enforcement agencies during the early Wonder Nine era.
Capacity is 14+1 rounds of 9mm Luger, and this listing includes one 14-round, double-column steel magazine compatible with the Model 59.