I recently posted pictures of a S&W 22 Targetmaster engraved by Frank Hendricks of San Antonio, who died in 2003. In doing research on Frank, I ran across this bit of info:
"Frank E. Hendricks has been one of the worlds top ten gun engravers for more than 50 years. Back in the 1970's Frank engraved several belt buckle designs based on Fredrick Remington, Charles Russell and his own designs. The buckles are negative engraved into bronze dies and are created by the lost wax method in three metals, bronze, sterling silver & gold. Each buckle is part of a limited series, the quantities vary from 200 to 400 pieces and are signed and numbered by Frank with, "Made Especially For 'your name" on the back.
These buckles have been sold out for years, coveted by collectors, and very seldom seen for sale."
I was extremely fortunate to find one; Charles Russells "The Buffalo Hunt" in bronze, #51 of 200. It will make a nice companion to the 22 Target Master.
"Charles Russell's oil painting, "The Buffalo Hunt" is recreated here in bronze sculpture as a 3 1/4" wide X 2 7/8" high buckle and is another fine detailed piece that commands high collectors prices. The limited edition of 200 bronze and 50 silver have been sold out for many years."