Page 235 - 83-BOOK1

Documented Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian L.D. Nimschke New York Engraved with Carved Mexican Eagle Grip from the Hank Williams Jr. Collection
LOT 1283
Rare Nimschke New York Engraved Smith
& Wesson Model No. 3 Russian 1st Model
Single Action Revolver with Relief Carved
Mexican Eagle Grip and Factory Letter -
Serial no. 19856, 44 S&W Russian cal., 8 inch
solid rib bbl., nickel finish, antique ivory
grips. This S&W Model No. 3 Russian 1st Model
revolver features wonderful L.D. Nimschke
extensive coverage New York engraving. Floral
scrollwork on a punch dot background and
border covers much of the frame, barrel and
cylinder. The left grip panel features a relief
carved Mexican eagle. The barrel rib legend
reads “RUSSIAN MODEL following the patent
dates.” Matching assembly numbers are on the
grip frame, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch. The
accompanying factory letter lists this revolver,
with an 8 inch barrel and smooth walnut grips,
being among a 100-unit shipment on April 4, 1873 to M.W. Robinson, in New York City, the large S&W distributor who handled the engraving and grips through L. D. Nimschke’s shop. Engraved Russian Models are far more rare than their period companion American Models and are thus seldom found for sale. This revolver is from the collection of world famous American country singer and song writer Hank Williams Jr. and includes a certificate of authenticity confirming his ownership as well as the aforementioned factory letter, which is addressed to him.
CONDITION: Excellent as Nimschke New York engraved, retaining 98% original nickel plating with some scattered high edge wear and slight flaking. The engraving remains very crisp. 95% plus original case colors remain on the hammer. The grips are very fine with some minor handling marks and excellent carving. Mechanically excellent. An outstanding and highly attractive L. D. Nimschke New York engraved S&W Model No. 3 Russian 1st Model revolver with superb relief carved Mexican eagle grips.
Provenance: The Hank Williams Jr.’s Collection.
Estimate: 9,500 - 16,000
233