Designed by Col. Kijiro Nambu in 1902 as a replacement for the Type 26 revolver and one of approximately 2,400 manufactured by the Tokyo Arsenal c. 1903-1906. The Type A "Grandpa" Nambu was the first of three variants found in the recoil operated semi-automatic Imperial Japanese Nambu service pistol series, with the inclusion of a slotted backstrap for use with a holster stock similar to the Mauser C96. This specific pistol, serial number "66", is described and pictured on pages 21-22 of "Japanese Hand Guns" by Frederick E. Leithe, called a "Nambu 1904 8mm Pistol". Features fixed blade front and adjustable notch rear (graduated from 100 to 500 meters) sights, aforementioned slotted backstrap, front gripstrap safety, Tokyo Arsenal "stacked cannonballs" marking on top of the chamber, along with the model marking characters and serial number on the right side. Fitted with a pair of checkered hardwood grips with matching "66" serial number stamped on the undersides and a early pattern nickel finished magazine with checkered hardwood base numbered to another pistol.

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% original blue finish and 70% plus straw colors with some minor edge wear, some limited minor patches of pitting and freckling on the grip straps along with thinning and brown patina, some plum coloration to the barrel, and minor handling marks. The grips are also exceptionally fine with some minor handling wear in the otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.