MEISSELBACH Expert #21

Description

#21 Expert, nickel plated brass.  Exposed rear click and pawl in VG mechanical condition. Advertisements were uncovered prior to P. White's publication released in 2006 wherein he confirmed the existence of the #21 in at least two versions, pin drag and exposed rear click and pawl.  1883-1895.  Those I have are marked only "Expert" on one frame crossmemeber.
The frame and spool are the same as was used on the #22, thus it was thought to be a #22.  It is however different in that the foot is secured to the frame with heavy plain or nickel plated brass screws (not rivets) and the spool is held in place on the frame by a unique 1/4-40 tpi nut secured by a black steel machine screw screwed into the spool spindle.
This one is an exposed rear click and pawl.  The gear is attached to the spool and the pawl and spring are inside the frame upright.  These reels should be considered very scarce to rare.  I have never seen another offered for sale identified properly no matter the condition.