May 18, 2021 Early Arms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/18/2021
For another example see pages 292-293 of "Historic Pistols" by Smith & Bitter. There are only 11 examples known. Like the example in the book, the underside of the tapered round barrel is stamped "P M/ RS 1814" and engraved with an assembly number "XXXIX". The corresponding mark is also carved in the stock in the barrel cavity. This model is referenced in a letter by Tench Cox dated January 18, 1812, stating that the pistol is to be modeled after the French Model XIII (1805) pistol. The author of the book states that these may have been made for the Massachusetts Militia, but no contracts have been located. The faceted breech is stamped with a sunken "P" in an oval and has a small punched rectangle in the center. The flat lockplate has beveled edges and a convex tail section, center stamped "EVANS". Lock features a brass pan and convex reinforced cock. The mounts are brass with the exception of an iron backstrap between the barrel tang and brass pommel cap. The stock is plain American walnut and has 11 notches on the bottom of the forestock and a couple indistinct inspectors marks on the left side behind the sideplate. CONDITION: Barrel has been cleaned and has some light pitting and scattered marks from use. Lock appears to be in its original flintlock configuration and retains a grey patina. Cock shows some pitting, frizzen spring screw is a replacement. Lock functions properly. Brass furniture shows scattered marks from use and a dark patina. Stock has a small chip replaced below front of lock tang and a 3-1/2" by 3/8" sliver replaced on left side of triggerguard. Ramrod is a modern replacement. A very rare and desirable War of 1812 pistol. DMG
Caliber/Bore
.69 Smoothbore