Offered here is a fantastic piece of 19th century firearms artistry by renowned master engraver L.D. Nimschke. The exhibition style embellishment on this revolver stands as a testament to Nimschke’s undisputed title as America’s foremost 19th century master engraver. One look at this revolver and it is easy to understand why so many past and present engravers have chosen to emulate his style. The near full coverage engraving exhibits many characteristics of Nimschke’s personal touch, including the serpent and dog heads on the side plate. These motifs are well identified in Nimschke’s smoke pulls presented in R.L. Wilson’s “L.D. Nimschke Firearms Engraver.” For the dog head see pages 14, 42, and 68, and for the serpent head see page 50. The engraving consists mostly of Nimschke’s rich scrollwork. In addition to the aforementioned panel scenes on the side plate, there are zig-zag line flourishes in the cylinder flutes and borders, a large floral blossom behind the hammer, and a dated presentation inscription in script on the back strap. The inscription reads, “E.C.M. from J.H.C. 1882.” Matching serial numbers are found on the butt, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch. The revolver is wearing a set of pearl bird’s head grips. The accompanying copy of the factory letter confirms the revolver was shipped on April 15, 1882 and purchased by S&W distributor M.W. Robinson of New York City. In the letter, S&W historian Roy Jinks acknowledges the engraving as in New York style. Complete with a period correct Hartley & Graham (of New York City) ribbon banner retailer case lined in red silk and containing a cartridge block holding a full count of 24 rounds. The interior of the case has a Hartley & Graham retailer marked blue ribbon. These gold-band embossed leather bound cases are recognized as a Hartley & Graham luxury item used with specially engraved revolvers. This revolver certainly meets the criteria of a luxury item well-suited for late 19th century high society. This Nimschke masterpiece was part of the S&W display at the 2010 NRA Annual Meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina, and comes with the exhibit label featured for the revolver. Provenance: The David Carroll Collection; The Sheryl Cheely Collection