This highly attractive Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle was manufactured in 1869, and engraved and signed by the renowned 19th century Master Engraver Louis D. Nimschke. He remains one of the most recognized and accomplished American arms engravers. Henry and Winchester rifles with Nimschke engraving are among the most desirable of all engraved American firearms. On this example, Nimschke's initials ("LDN") are signed on the underside of the frame just ahead of the lower tang. The rifle is pictured and identified in R.L. Wilson’s “Winchester Engraving” on page 55 where the “simple signature” of “LDN” is noted. The brass surfaces (forend cap, frame, sideplates, and buttplate) display highly attractive floral scrollwork on a punch dot background with all the characteristics of being executed by the most celebrated of the 19th century’s master engravers, L.D. Nimschke. In addition to the scrollwork, the left side plate is engraved with a monogram and the right side plate is decorated with a blank inscription banner surrounded by fine checkerboard designs. The rear and top of the frame are accented with line and dot motifs. A floral pattern is engraved behind the hammer. The cartridge elevator and chamber are decorated with a star burst. The engraving is similar to the pattern featured on attorney and politician Albert Fountain's Model 1866 as pictured in "The Winchester Engraving" on page 52. The lower tang has the serial number. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester New Haven address/King's patent legend. This is a third model with the serial number stamped in block letters on the lower tang. The forearm and straight grip stock are attractively figured varnished walnut. Provenance: The John F. Miller Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 95% of the professionally restored blue finish over a few small patches of pitting with recut barrel address. The surfaces of the frame have half replated gold with an overall attractive contrasting mellow appearance. The side plates are a different patina; however, the engraved panels match up nicely and appear to be in the same hand. There is evidence of polishing on the left side where the side plate meets the frame. The engraving is crisp. There is a repaired chip on the left side of the wrist, otherwise the replacement wood is also very fine with minor dings and scratches and nearly all of the over coat of varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent. A very interesting, beautifully Nimschke engraved Winchester Model 1866 rifle.