May 17, 2022 Early Arms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/17/2022
For an identical example, see page 80 of "British Military Pistols and Associated Edged Weapons" by Robert Brooker. This circa 1750-60 example was made for commercial sale, militia units, and sale to officers. Officers were not issued pistols and were required to purchase their own. Many officers wished to purchase pistols similar to what was being issued to their troops. This is nearly identical to the military Pattern 1738 pistol, except that the barrel is 1" longer and the pommel cap lacks full stirrups. The swamped round barrel is stamped at the breech with private London view and proof marks, as well as a crown over "RW" for maker Richard Watkin. The convex banana lock is convex and marked "R. / WATKIN" in the center. Standard brass Pattern 1738 style furniture with pommel cap differing as it only has semi-stirrups. Walnut stock of Georgian form with an apron carved around the barrel tang and a bulge around ramrod entry ferrule. There is a small indentation in front of the rearmost sideplate screw and a small indentation in the stock, showing that a belt hook was once present. Complete with its original brass-tipped wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel retains a light grey patina with scattered dark freckling. Markings very good. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and mechanism is strong, retains a freckled grey patina with some marks from cleaning, very good markings. Brass retains a pleasing mustard patina. Stock retains a pleasing patina and has scattered wormholes. Small crack stemming from barrel tang towards lock. A very attractive 18th century British dragoon pistol.
Caliber/Bore
.67 Smoothbore