Deluxe Cased L.D. Nimschke Engraved Smith & Wesson No. 1 1/2 Second Issue Revolver

Description:
Manufactured circa 1868–1875, this is an exceptionally fine example of a Smith & Wesson No. 1½ Second Issue revolver engraved by the renowned master L.D. Nimschke. The revolver features near full-coverage embellishment, including exquisitely executed floral scroll with punch-dot backgrounds, rows of diamonds ending in scroll flourishes along the sides of the barrel, and small areas of basket-weave patterning on the barrel lug and top of the frame. Similar motifs are illustrated as smoke pulls in L.D. Nimschke: Firearms Engraver by Wilson (pages 42 and 95).

The top of the barrel rib is marked with the standard one-line address and patent marking. Matching serial numbers are present on the butt and inside the right grip panel. The right side of the grip frame is stamped with a star and “F6,” repeated on the rear face of the barrel lug, likely assembler’s marks rather than the later Smith & Wesson factory “rework” star.

The revolver is fitted with a blade front sight and a notch rear sight in the cylinder stop, along with an attractive pair of smooth rosewood grips. It comes complete with a hardwood case featuring a blank brass presentation plaque on the lid, red baize interior, two keys, and an extra hammer and cylinder stop.

Condition

Excellent, retains 98% plus of the original nickel finish with some very light, pinprick type flaking on the rammer pin, a few scattered light handling marks, and crisp engraving overall. The grips are very fine with a few spot of flaked varnish and light handling marks. Mechanically functions, but hangs up on a couple of the cylinder notches. The case is very fine with some scattered handling/storage marks.

Handgun Caliber: .32 Rimfire
Serial Number: 26810
Barrel Length: 3 1/2 inch solid rib

Price: $7,499.99