This highly embellished arm showcases the artistry of the most celebrated 19th century Master Engraver L.D. Nimschke. The engraving pattern is Nimschke's elegant arabesque style with fine punch dot backgrounds. Perhaps the most striking feature to the engraving are the "kidney shaped" motifs on both sides of the frame. Entwining lines and dots decorate the barrel at the muzzle. Behind the hammer is a scroll flourish incorporating a series of stars. The back strap and butt feature unique scroll patterns on a punch dot background. The engraving is complete with Nimschke's characteristic "star burst" on the bottom of the frame and arrow on each side of the barrel. Several similar patterns, especially the barrel embellishments, are found as Nimschke's smoke pulls published in R.L. Wilson's "L.D. Nimschke: Firearms Engraver" on the bottom of page 18. The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. Matching assembly number "47" appears on the grip frame and cylinder. The period case contains a cartridge block holding 49 rounds and a cleaning rod. The accompanying factory letter states this revolver was sold on May 21, 1866, purchased by J.W. Storrs of New York City and shipped with a 3 3/16 inch barrel, blue barrel, blue cylinder, silver plated brass frame and smooth rosewood grips. In the factory letter, S&W historian Roy Jinks provides additional information and observations: "This shipment was for 100 units. This is an interesting group of guns in this serial number range. I have seen several all engraved in the same style and it has been my opinion that Storrs had them done for the factory, however, we never find them as being sold [engraved] by the factory." Provenance: The John J."Jack" Malloy Collection; The Sheryl Cheely Collection

Exceptionally fine. The barrel and cylinder retain 85% original blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance. Nearly all of the original silver plating remains on the frame. The engraving is crisp. The grips are excellent with very limited handling evidence and nearly all of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with minor handling/storage marks and typical high spot wear. A master work of 19th century firearms artistry by L.D. Nimschke that will be a welcome addition to any S&W collection no matter how advanced.