(A) EXTREMELY RARE FLINTLOCK NAVAL CONTRACT BOARDING

For a nearly an identical example, see No. 89 on pages 188-189 of "Historic Pistols" by Smith and Bitter. The book states that very few of these pistols are known to exist and that they were made during the War of 1812 in Philadelphia on a small order of perhaps twenty pistols. The round iron barrel is stamped with a sunken "P" in an oval cartouche on the left side of the breech. The flat lockplate has beveled edges and a stepped-tail, stamped "J. HENRY" in the center. Brass furniture includes military-style semi-stirrup pommel cap, rounded trigger guard, and "S"-shaped flat brass sideplate with an iron belt hook. Stocked in plain walnut and complete with its original wooden ramrod with slotted iron tip. CONDITION: Barrel has been cleaned and retains a light grey surface with scattered pitting, markings are very good. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and functions well, some scattered pitting and very good markings. Brass retains a mustard patina with scattered marks from use. Iron belt hook shows scattered pitting and is original. Stock shows scattered marks from use and bruising, 1 minor sliver replaced along barrel, above lock tang. A rare and desirable War of 1812 naval pistol. DMG Barrel Length: 10 - 1/4" Caliber/Bore: .56 Smoothbore FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: J. Henry Model: Flintlock Boarding Pistol Serial Number: NSN