October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
For a nearly identical example, see number 123 and pages 256-257 of "Historic Pistols" by Samuel E. Smith and Edwin W. Bitter. Pistols of this type with barrels dated either 1814 or 1815 are believed to have been made late in the War of 1812 for privateers sailing from New England ports. The barrel marks are similar to those of T. French pistols made in Canton, Massachusetts. Round, smoothbore barrel deeply stamped at breech "P / RP" and "M / 1814". It is believed that this is a Massachusetts proof mark with the "P" standing for 'Proved', "M" for the state, and "RP" for inspector Rufus Perkins. Five similar pistols are known and all are unmarked, except for the barrel stamps and dates. The flat lockplate has a molding at the tail and is unmarked. Plain brass furniture, the trigger guard tang terminating in an arrow at the front. There is no sideplate, only small round escutcheons surrounding the lock screws. Complete with an original Massachusetts Militia commission for Quarter Master Sergeant dated 1813. This commission has accompanied the pistol and apparently belonged to its owner. CONDITION: Barrel has been chemically cleaned and retains a grey, lightly pitted surface. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and retains a grey patina with some pitting at the tail. Lock retaining screws are replacements. Brass retains a mellow mustard patina. Stock shows scattered marks from use and age cracks. Commission shows some minor tears, holes, and creases. A very nice militia pistol. DMG
Caliber/Bore
.60 Smoothbore
Model
Massachusetts Militia Pistol