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LOT 3130
Fine New York Engraved, Nickel-Plated Colt Model 1860 Richards Conversion Revolver with Slim-Jim Holster - Serial no. 199533, 44 CF cal., 8 inch round bbl., nickel finish, antique ivory grips. This is a First Model 1860 Richards Conversion revolver with nickel-plated finish, one-piece antique ivory grip and Germanic scroll engraving on a punch-dot background. The engraving appears to have been executed by master engraver
L. D. Nimschke or his shop for Schuyler, Hartley and Graham of New York City. Schuyler, Hartley and Graham employed L.D. Nimschke to embellish most of the few engraved Model 1860 Richards Conversion revolvers. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: “-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-” in an engraved panel with wavy line and dot borders. The early “COLTS/PATENT” marking on the left side of
the frame is enclosed in an engraved oval. The forward portion of the cylinder is roll-stamped with the Texas Navy battle scene and the rear of the cylinder and the conversion ring have zigzag and punch-dot engraving. The top and sides of the back strap have sunburst engraving with a wavy line and dot border and the remainder of the back strap and butt are outlined with wavy zigzag engraving. The serial number is located on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The cylinder is stamped with the partial serial number “9533”. All of the visible serial numbers match.
The inside of the loading gate is assembly numbered “172”. The revolver has an internal loading gate
spring, cross-hatched ejector head and bordered and underlined hammer spur knurl. The revolver is complete with a russet leather open top California pattern holster. The undecorated, form fitting holster has a single recurve at the throat for the trigger guard and a belt loop attached by three copper rivets.
CONDITION: Fine. The revolver retains 60% of the original nickel-plated finish with scattered, minor, flaking and edge wear on the brass trigger guard and back strap. The engraving is crisp and deep. The factory markings
on the barrel and frame are sharp. The cylinder retains most of the roll-engraved naval scene. The grip is very fine, with some age discoloration on the left side of the grip and on the right side along the back strap. The grip is free from chips and wear is limited to several hair-line age cracks on the butt. Mechanically fine. The holster is very good with a smooth body and tight stitching. Wear is limited to some flexing and scuffing on the throat and a break in the toe plug. This is a fine example of a highly desirable New York engraved Colt Model 1860 Richards Conversion revolver with period California
pattern western holster.
Provenance: The Will Hoffeld Collection; Property of a Gentleman.
Estimate: 14,000 - 22,500
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