November 3-4, 2017 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/4/2017
Very few Model 1842 Navy pistols are known to exist. This example is dated 1849 and marked on the top of the breech with an anchor proofmark and features a steel belt hook, mounted behind the sideplate. The Model 1842 is the first percussion pistol adopted by the U.S. government. About 41,000 made by H. Aston, I.N. Johnson, and Palmetto Armory between 1846 and 1855. Round smoothbore steel barrel is stamped "US/GW/P" and is stamped with a small naval anchor, tang dated "1849". Small brass half moon front sight and no rear sight. Flat percussion lockplate with beveled edges and rounded hammer, lockplate stamped in center "US/H. ASTON" and vertically on tail "MIDDTN/CONN/1849". Other than the addition of a small steel belt hook fastened by two screws, features standard brass Model 1842 furniture, including brass backstrap and barrel band with extension to sideplate, many parts stamped with small "W" inspector's marks. Steel swivel type ramrod with button plunger and opposite end shaped for cleaning. Partially figured varnished walnut half-stock, marked with inspector's cartouche partially visible under belthook. Good condition, all steel components retain a spotted grey patina, and have a few scattered light marks from use and some freckling near breech and on bolster. Brass furniture has been polished and has a few scattered marks. Stock good with a few scattered marks, minor cracks, and some edge wear. Small cavity made for oiling beneath tail of lockplate. This is a great example of a seldomly encountered U.S. Naval pistol. CORRECTION: The belt hook has been added at a later date.
Caliber/Bore
.54 Percussion