November 3-4, 2017 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/4/2017
Probably a prototype or pattern pistol, as noted by Flayderman. A number of examples are known, making it a possibility that it is a unknown special militia contract. Other than a reinforced cock with a circular hole, rather than a heart-shaped cutout and the lack of maker's markings, it conforms in all other ways to the Model 1836. The Model 1836 was the last U.S. martial pistol made with a flintlock mechanism. About 41,000 were manufactured between 1836 and 1844 by Asa Waters and Robert Johnson. This was the standard issue pistol for the Mexican War and many were converted to percussion for later use during the American Civil War. Round smoothbore steel barrel marked "U.S./JH/P" near breech, small brass front sight and oval rear sight on tang. Top of barrel is engraved with an arrow pointing towards the muzzle, as well as a fern stemming from the barrel band and decoration around the front sight. Flat beveled lockplate with rounded tail section, stamped with eagle only in the center, brass pan. Standard Model 1836 steel furniture and swivel type ramrod with button plunger. Triggerguard and sideplate stamped with small "D" inspector's mark. Plain walnut half-stock with small "C" stamped behind sideplate, on left side. Very good condition, all steel components retain a grey patina with some darker freckling and scattered light marks. Lock is in original flintlock configuration. Sock very good with a few light marks from use. Regarded to by many collectors as the best made, best looking, and best performing flintlock martial pistol produced.