This exceptional 1872-production Winchester Model 1866 presentation saddle ring carbine features extensive Ulrich-pattern engraving covering approximately 75% of the action, along with a seven-line presentation inscription honoring Colonel Leopold Nelson, Inspector General of the forces of Santa Fe, Argentina.
Nelson (1836–1890), who later became a general, was a prominent Argentine military officer who participated in the Argentine Civil Wars, the Paraguayan War, and the Conquest of the Desert. The presentation of this carbine reflects Winchester’s 19th-century practice of providing finely engraved firearms to influential military and government officials as the company expanded its presence in South America.
The carbine is richly decorated with detailed scroll engraving, punch-dot and crosshatched backgrounds, finely engraved borders, and a small jumping-deer scene. It features a 20-inch round barrel, .44 caliber chambering, silver-plated receiver and buttplate, blued barrel and magazine tube, and serial number 97871. An original three-section cleaning rod is housed in the buttstock.
With its elaborate engraving, documented association with Colonel Leopold Nelson, and notable provenance from the Will Hoffeld Collection, this Model 1866 is a distinctive example of a Winchester presentation firearm with significant Argentine and American historical connections.
More information:
This exceptional 1872-production Winchester Model 1866 presentation saddle ring carbine features extensive Ulrich-pattern engraving covering approximately 75% of the action, along with a seven-line presentation inscription honoring Colonel Leopold Nelson, Inspector General of the forces of Santa Fe, Argentina.
Nelson (1836–1890), who later became a general, was a prominent Argentine military officer who participated in the Argentine Civil Wars, the Paraguayan War, and the Conquest of the Desert. The presentation of this carbine reflects Winchester’s 19th-century practice of providing finely engraved firearms to influential military and government officials as the company expanded its presence in South America.
The carbine is richly decorated with detailed scroll engraving, punch-dot and crosshatched backgrounds, finely engraved borders, and a small jumping-deer scene. It features a 20-inch round barrel, .44 caliber chambering, silver-plated receiver and buttplate, blued barrel and magazine tube, and serial number 97871. An original three-section cleaning rod is housed in the buttstock.
With its elaborate engraving, documented association with Colonel Leopold Nelson, and notable provenance from the Will Hoffeld Collection, this Model 1866 is a distinctive example of a Winchester presentation firearm with significant Argentine and American historical connections.
More information:
