December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/14/2022
While the pistols have some minor differences, these pistols were probably married together as a pair during their working lives. Both pistols have their barrels retained by a double strap nosecap engraved with light line engraving at the borders; left sides marked "A", one with a star stamp. Barrels themselves are engraved with the Royal Arms of France, enhanced with gilt, of which only traces remain; "M70" offset of breech. Tangs engraved with "1770" designation, and light engraving of two different styles. Locks with faceted bridled pans, filed frizzen springs, light line border engraving, and "Manufacture de Charleville" in center. Reinforced cocks engraved with spray of florals; one topjaw screw replaced. Trigger guards engraved with light shell and floral motif, finials stamped with a star on both pistols, one has an additional "A". Sideplates with light engraving, star stamps, and A stamps en suite. Both pistols stamped "PME / M / 70" behind sideplates. Birdshead grips with buttcaps engraved en suite. CONDITION: Overall very good. Metal has been cleaned in the European fashion with some spotted darkness over the dove grey metal. Engraving is crisp throughout. Wood is good with numerous bumps, pressure marks, and some chips at extremities throughout. One crack behind pistol (A)'s lockplate that appears stable. Both pistols are mechanically fine with good bores, minimal oxidation. Most 1770s found are not officers pistols, and this cataloguer is aware of very few other examples. EMW
Barrel Length
(BOTH) 5 - 1/16"
Caliber/Bore
(BOTH) .62 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
(BOTH) Charleville