Mother of pearl, grip and a half.

[VaRecon]

A buddy of mine was given a set of Mother-of-Pearl grips that fit flush with a k-frame.
They resemble old, 1917-style circle top grips.
The problem is the right grip has been carved in the shape of a steer that isn't what I would call Butcher's Choice.
I've heard value of the grip material alone could be upwards of two hundred dollars.
The steer is broad enough to where a skilled hand could make it pretty with the material still there.
This being said could anyone maybe estimate the value of these grips?
Pictured on my 66, The unpictured side is uncarved, standard grip.

 

[gdogs]

The problem is the right grip has been carved in the shape of a steer that isn't what I would call Butcher's Choice.

That's not a problem, that's a blessing. Hard to put a value on them without seeing both sides and the undersides, but in good shape they'll bring between $100-200 no problem. Grips with gems in the eyes and gold inlays will bring considerably more. Very cool, my advise is to hold on to them... they just don't make them like that anymore. Do some searches for Wolf and Klar, plenty of info out there.

 

[VaRecon]

I will put up some more detailed pictures momentarily but thanks for the reassuring me.
Glad to know someone didn't ruin them.

 

[opoefc]

As gdogs said, "That's not a problem" Post some pictures of the backside of the grips and I can tell you if they are from Wolf & Klar. If so, the $100-200 is on the low side. Ed.

 

[s&wchad]

Working with mother of pearl is very hazardous because of the dust. I believe it was done under water to minimum the risk. I wouldn't think of having them altered, they're awesome just as is. They're also rather fragile, so tell your friend not to over-tighten them and it's probably wise not to shoot the gun with those on it.

I'm not sure about the value, but I don't think you could touch them for $200 if they're chip and crack free.

 

[VaRecon]

Here are some better pictures.
Let me know what you think.
It looks like the uncarved left grip has the slightest bit of chipping where it would meet the frame, you can see a little sheen to it in the picture where this is present.
Otherwise, no cracks or chips that I can see.

 

[opoefc]

The back sides do not have the, accepted by collectors, Wolf & Klar markings, which are a series of marks similar to Roman Numerals. Ed.

 

[VaRecon]

No, there are no identifying marks whatsoever on the grips.

 

[LEO918]

The steer appears to be "winking". I wouldn't sell them for $200.

 

[VaRecon]

I have them for sale in another thread for 200 shipped.

 

[gdauth]

As I recall, George Patton had something to say about pearl handle revolvers.