The Top 300! - Spring Classic Part 2
Lot 199b:
Description
This is an extremely rare “Nimschke” engraved Smith & Wesson No.3 Russian top break revolver chambered in .44 S&W Russian. Engraved by the world-renowned engraver, Louis Daniel Nimschke (July 4, 1832 – April 29, 1904) he was a master firearms engraver of the 19th century who engraved over 5,000 firearms between 1850 and 1904 for Smith & Wesson and other manufacturers. Born in Germany in 1832, Nimschke moved to the United States in 1850 at the age of 18 and began engraving jewelry, silverware, watch cases and dog collars. Nimschke was trained in both the European style of engraving which was represented by fine delicate lines, and the bolder American style characterized by his scrollwork. The engraving is confirmed by renowned firearm engraver and author, C Roger Bleile (original letter provided). The revolver itself, a commercial overrun from the Russian military contract, is a 2nd Model No 3 Russian which were produced from 1873 to 1878. When produced for the Russian military, Cyrillic inscriptions were added along the top of the barrel rib accompanied by the Russian Imperial Double Eagle stamp. All others were stamped in English text. The 2nd model featured a 7-inch barrel, a distinct trigger spur, and a Humpback “knuckle” on the grip backstrap. This specific revolver also features a 6-round cylinder, beautiful ivory grips which are in good condition, and a nickel-plated finish. The finish is in extremely fine vintage condition showing only minor freckling, wear, darkening and hair scratches. There is slight pitting on the right side of the frame behind the hammer and on the barrel near the muzzle. The bore is clean and the rifling is good. Mechanically, the action and trigger are tight and appear to function properly. Overall, this is a beautiful revolver by itself, but when you add the exquisite Nimschke engravings, it makes it an extremely RARE piece that is worthy of museum attention. Please see photos for overall condition. Classified Antique. S/N 38804.
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