Lot 1093

L.D. Nimschke Engraved Colt House Model "Cloverleaf" Revolver

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L.D. Nimschke Engraved Colt House Model "Cloverleaf" Revolver

Estimate: $20,000 - $35,000

Starting Bid: $18,000

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 22, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Extraordinary Deluxe L.D. Nimschke New York Engraved and Gold Washed Colt House Model "Cloverleaf" Spur Trigger Revolver with Pearl Grips and "Coin Purse" Case Manufactured in 1871, the first year of production, this is one of approximately 7,500 manufactured known as the "cloverleaf" variation, due to the shape of their four-shot cylinder. This particular example is a truly extraordinary, New York engraved and gold washed deluxe example worthy of exhibition or a lavish presentation. Given the quality and themes of the engraving on this striking revolver, it is undoubtedly the work of the legendary L.D. Nimschke, one of the most talented and influential American engravers of the 19th century. During the time period this revolver was produced, Colt is known to have contracted Nimschke to engrave some of their most elaborate pieces, including many of the deluxe revolvers that were displayed at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. Along with the extravagant engraving, this revolver received a stunning gold washed finish over silver plating, truly elevating it to among the elite during its era as well as today among collectors. The engraving on this particular example encompasses about three-quarters of the surfaces showing primarily magnificently executed floral scrollwork on beaded backgrounds, as well as some other typical motifs of Nimschke's work including cross-hatched panels and kidney shapes. The top of the barrel has the standard two-line address flanked by Maltese crosses. The matching serial number is on the butt, bottom of the barrel, and hand-marked in pencil on the inside of both grip panels. It is fitted with a blade front sight and a frame-top groove rear sight, as well as a pair of highly attractive smooth pearl grips. Included with this revolver is an attractive red velvet coin purse type case.

Manufacturer: Colt

Model: House

BBL: 3 inch round

Gauge: 41 Rimfire

Finish: gold/silver

Grips: pearl

Serial Number131

Class: Antique

  • Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection
  • Condition: Exceptionally fine as master engraved by L.D. Nimschke, retaining 75% plus of the beautifully toned, delicate, gold wash with the attractively aged silver plated base coat exposed on the barrel and top of the frame and the engraving remaining extremely crisp throughout. The grips are excellent with only the slightest handling evidence. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with some mild wear. The is a highly attractive deluxe embellished example of the desirable Colt "Cloverleaf" revolver!

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000