November 17 & 18, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2021
No other 19th century firearm engraver is more sought after or admired by collectors than the work of Louis Daniel Nimschke. Pictured on page 224 of R.L. Wilson's "Colt Engraving" book and accredited to Nimschke is Colt Single Action Army serial number 89332. Nickle with 5 - 1/2" barrel, chambered in .44-40 WCF. 2-piece Mother of Pearl grips. Accompanying Colt Archival Letter dated November 14, 2003 documents configuration and shipped "Soft" to Hartley & Graham in New York on March 19, 1883 in a single gun shipment. Letter has a foot note "The word "soft" which appears with the finish indicates subject revolver was shipped without final finishing for engraving outside our factory.". Revolver exhibits deluxe engraving which features L.D.N. trademark scroll and vine work with cross hatching and rope boarders highlighted with punch dot backgrounds. Nimschke paid special attention to this revolver by detail of rarely seen engraving to the cylinder flutes, double width "wedding band" on rear circumference of cylinder, and extensive overall coverage of engraving. CONDITION: Excellent plus with approximately 95% bright original nickel plating (applied by H&G) showing modest wear overall. Bore is bright. Action is tight and crisp. Grips are excellent showing minimum wear. Overall a most attractive and profusely engraved by the 19th century master. MKS