Manufactured c. 1868-1875, this is an exceptionally fine example of an L.D. Nimschke engraved Smith & Wesson No 1 1/2 second issue revolver. The revolver is decorated with wonderful near full coverage engraving by renowned Master Engraver L.D. Nimschke. The embellishment features beautifully executed floral scroll with a punch dot background, rows of diamonds ending in flourishes of scroll on the sides of the barrel, and small areas of "basket weave" patterns on the barrel lug and top of the frame. Similar scroll patterns appear as smoke pulls in "L.D. Nimschke: Firearms Engraver" by Wilson on pages 42 and 95. The top of the barrel rib is marked with the standard one-line address and patent marking. The matching serial number is marked on the butt and inside the right grip panel. The right of the grip frame is stamped with a star and "F6", which is repeated on the rear face of the barrel lug. These appear to be assemblers marks, not the "factory rework star" seen later from the Smith & Wesson factory. It is fitted with a blade front sight and a notch rear sight in the cylinder stop. It is also fitted with an attractive pair of smooth rosewood grips. Includes a hardwood case with blank brass presentation plaque on the lid and red baize interior, as well as two keys and an extra hammer and cylinder stop. Provenance: The Cam & Deb Cooper Collection

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.