GUN FALL 2017
The live portion of this session begins on Tuesday, October 31, 2017.
1812 DATED 2ND MODEL VIRGINIA MANUFACTORY FLINTLOCK PISTOL. VA MFG 2ND MDL NSN 58 Cal. 58. 10-1/8″ unmarked bbl externally and the bottom is marked "5555" with hash mark. Lock is marked reading in two vertical curves behind the cock "RICHMOND/1812" and forward of cock "VIRGINIA". Inside the lock is stamped "H" and reversed "E" and each internal part is marked with a small cryptic "S" or "5". All lock components appear orig with exception of a well restored frizzen. Same cryptic found internally is also found stamped on inside of cock. Walnut stock is marked opposite the lock with pair of small initials,appears to be "JJ". Furniture consists of a brass sideplate, trigger guard, buttcap, ramrod pipe and inset band near the tail pipe are orig to this gun. Inside trigger bow is stamped "5555". Only 386 Virginia Manufactory pistols were made in 1812 and orig flint examples are rarely found, this is a beautiful example with great collection history and fine markings and aesthetics. PROVENANCE: O.J. Bierly, Carnegie Museum, Pittsburgh, PA, 1933; Malcolm MacFarlane, Sewickley, PA, 1954; pictured in "A Pictorial History of U.S. Single Shot Martial Pistols", Kalman & Patterson, 1957; C. Meade Patterson Collection, Arlington, VA; Conestoga Auctions, Lot 17, November 11, 1999; Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good overall. Bbl has been cleaned externally with overall plum/brown patina with staining and pitting. Brass is fairly smooth with dark mustard patina. Stock is sound and solid with about a 1" hairline at underlock at rear, fairly crisp edges, hand worn patina. Frizzen has welded repair, probably an old part that has been repaired and utilized on this gun. Old notes state the top jaw and top jaw screw, frizzen, frizzen spring and screw are replacement "old parts". Without these notes, I would not have questioned any part other than frizzen and frizzen spring screw. The ramrod is a restoration, however swivel appears orig. Mechanically sound with clear pitted bore. 52328-33 JS (8,000-12,000)