May 17, 2022 Early Arms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/17/2022
This pair of circa 1800 pistols were passed through the family of Stephen Decatur, Jr. and were originally his pistols, according to family provenance. The pair have been decorated by the addition of two silver bands on each. Bands are silver with repose decoration with niello accents. This Ottoman-style decor was probably added at some time when his naval travels took him to the eastern region. When removed, the surfaces underneath are bright and as new, evidencing they were added early in the life of the pistols. The two-stage barrels have thick walls and "P" and "V" proofs in sunken ovals, denoting that these barrels were proofed in America. It is known that Ketland did have a Philadelphia shop, where these pistols were likely proofed. The locks on these pistols are nearly identical in maker's markings and form to the locks on the 1797 McCormick pistol contracts. The brass furniture includes oval-shaped wrist escutcheons, oval lock retaining screw escutcheons, and a trigger guard terminating in an acorn. Walnut stocks with flat-sided cane grips. Complete with their period wooden ramrods. CONDITION: Both are in as found and untouched condition. Both in their original flintlock configurations. One pistol has a broken cock and is missing the finial from the trigger guard's front tang. Both have pleasing untouched patinas and show scattered marks, both show very little use. PROVENANCE: These pistols descended through the Decatur family and have been consigned by a descendent. A notarized statement verifying this information and signed by the family, is included. DMG
Caliber/Bore
(BOTH) .62 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
(BOTH) Ketland & Co.
Model
(BOTH) Officers Pistols