April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
The great work of L.D. Nimschke needs no introduction, however, when his embellishments grace the smallest Colt firearms it transfers them from just a firearm to a subject of mechanical art. This #3 Thuer is serial number 8577, caliber .41 rimfire. Standard model with nickel finish and 2-1/2" round barrel that has half moon front sight and a large “COLT” engraved on top. Pistol is beautifully engraved by master engraver L.D. Nimschke with about 75-80% coverage exquisite foliate arabesque patterns that have pearled & shaded background. Left side of the barrel, over the chamber area is engraved with Mr. Nimschke’s mythical dogs head. Outside of the ejector tube is engraved in very fine detailed leaf patterns. Each side of the frame, by the hammer slot is engraved with a fan pattern which is also found at top of backstrap. Buttstrap & bottom of frame are engraved to match. Mounted with most unusual full checkered 2-piece ivory grips. This little pistol has a long history dating back to 1981 with a sale at Christie’s and later Butterfield’s in 1999. While the #3 Derringer is not uncommon such fine engraved specimens are extremely hard to find. These little pistols were produced in fairly large numbers 1870-1912 and were extremely popular with ladies as muff pistols and gentlemen and gamblers for vest pocket pistols. Few survive today with original finish. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Overall retains virtually all of its crisp original factory nickel. Hammer & trigger retain strong case colors. Grips are sound with a golden ivory patina. Mechanics are crisp, bright shiny bore. By far the most elaborate and elegant Colt Derringer offered for sale in recent history.