November 17, 2020 Early Arms & Militaria: Age of Exploration, Empire & Revolution
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2020
Both pistols are stocked in what appears to be walnut and the form is unusual, leading one to believe that they may have been stocked or restocked in America. Both have tapered 7-1/2" round .60 smoothbore barrels with a tapered flat on top towards the breech. Tops of the barrels are marked "LONDON" surrounded by a decorative border and both have private London view and proof marks on the left sides of the breeches. The convex lockplates are marked "RICHARDS" in the centers and feature floral engraving at the tails as well as rocker panel engraved borders. Both pistols feature solid silver mounts and are devoid of any visible hallmarks. One unusual feature is the trigger floorplates, which are also of silver. The trigger guard finials terminate in an acorn finial at the fronts, and the bows are engraved with floral motifs. The pierced sideplates are composed of foliate scrolls and the pommel caps feature grotesque masks with a acanthus leaf finials. The asymmetrical wrist escutcheons have a vacant inscription plaque, and are also of sterling silver with shell designs at the tops. The walnut stocks are of attractive form, with fine relief carved shell designs around the barrel tangs. Both pistols have wooden ramrods, one with a steel worm at the tip, and both with brass endcaps. CONDITION: Barrels have been cleaned bright and show traces of chemical cleaning. Markings are very good. Locks are both in their original flintlock configuration and function properly. Markings and engraving are excellent. Silver retains a mellow patina and stocks are excellent, with a few scattered storage marks. A very attractive pair of silver mounted officer's pistols. DMG
Item Dimensions: 13"
Caliber/Bore
.60 Smoothbore
Model
Flintlock Officers Pistols