October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
For a similar example with the same markings, see number 125 on pages 262-263 of "Historic Pistols" by Samuel E. Smith and Edwin W. Bitter. All French pistols were made in Canton, Massachusetts between 1810 and 1815 and were used in the War of 1812. The round barrel is stamped with a small "W.N.Y.", which is the mark of the Washington Navy Yard. It is believed that this mark was put on when the pistol was converted to percussion. The flat lockplate has a molding at the tail and beveled edges, and is stamped with traces of "T. FRENCH" marking. The pistols has an iron backstrap integral with the tang, running to the pommel cap. The brass furniture is similar to that on the North Berlin pistols, including a flat, long, serpentine sideplate. The full length walnut stock is stamped behind the sideplate with traces of the marking "MARSH / MA / V", which is believed to be that of an inspector at the Washington Navy Yard at the time they were converted to percussion. The pistol has a bag grip. Complete with a replaced ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel retains a mostly clean surface with some scattered dark spots. The lock retains an applied brown finish and shows heavy wear to markings. Lock is a professional reconversion. Belt hook is a contemporary replacement. Brass furniture is polished and shows scattered marks from use. Stock is refinished and shows heavy use, and has one piece replaced on the left side along the barrel. DMG
Caliber/Bore
.69 Smoothbore