October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
Very rare Simeon North 1811-1813 transition or “Flat-Lock” flintlock martial pistol. The original U.S. government contract called for 20,000 of model 1813 pistols to be made, but due to harsh recoil and large size, the contract was revised and only 1,626 pistols were delivered. As part of these 1,626 pistols, Simeon North assembled for inspection by Henry H. Perkins 85 pistols using Model 1811 barrels, Model 1811 lock plates, Model 1813 stocks, and Model 1813 furniture making these 85 pistols some of the rarest martial flintlock pistols in existence. These pistols today are called Transition or Flat Lock Model 1813 pistols. The pistol has a round model 1811 smoothbore steel barrel stamped "P/US" on left side of breech and a faint “P” on the backstrap. The tail of the lock plate is stamped "S. NORTH/CON." and the center shows traces of "U. STATES" marking. Plain walnut half-stock terminating at end of the band, complete with wooden ramrod. Has a partially visible inspector's cartouche/HHP" for Henry H. Perkin on left side, behind sideplate. Standard Model 1813 steel furniture with Wickham band. This pistol was converted to percussion and further enhanced in 1884 and turned into a presentation Christmas present. The barrel features an acid-etched inscription panel which reads "Wm. Pettis, Troy, N.Y./from/J.P. Woodworth, Dec. 25th 1884" surrounded by leaves and vines. CONDITION: Very good condition, steel components cleaned bright with some scattered light spotting, generous traces of plated finish, especially on backstrap. Stock refinished with a few scattered marks from use and some edge wear. This is a fine example of a very scarce and truly unique and rare American martial pistol later turned into a presentation piece. DG
Caliber/Bore
.69 Smoothbore