(A) U.S. MODEL 1805 HARPERS FERRY FLINTLOCK PISTOL

This model is considered among the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing of American martial pistols. The prestigious American Society of Arms Collectors chose this gun in profile as their logo. These guns were made in pairs between 1806 and 1808 with a total production of about 4,000 guns with each gun of a pair having the same serial number. This pistol is photographed and discussed on pages 49 and 50 of "Harper's Ferry Arsenal and Joseph Perkin" by Rick Hudak. This example is one of a known pair, the other listed on Sam Smith's list and both are dated 1807 and bare the number "432" at the breech. This gun is the standard pattern with 10 - 1/8" round steel barrel in .54 caliber smoothbore, breech marked with raised eagle over “P” in a sunken oval behind a raised “US” in a sunken oval behind stamped serial number "432". Lock is marked “HARPERS/FERRY/1807” in vertical arcs behind cock. Under the pan is a spread-winged eagle facing toward the cock over “US”. The plain walnut stock is marked opposite the lock with inspector initials “V” over “JS” in script, for James Stubblefield. CONDITION: Good, overall. The barrel retains a freckled grey patina with some scattered heavier corrosion near the touch hole, markings excellent. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration. Markings are excellent and lock retains a mostly dark grey patina. Stock good with some scattered marks from use, horizontal age cracks and repairs on both sides of forend, and a small chip around the rear tang of lockplate, light cartouche is worn. One piece absent around nose band and other side with a small sliver replaced. Ramrod is a period replacement. Brass retains a mellow patina. A very fine example. PROVENANCE: From the collection of author Rick Hudak. DMG Barrel Length: 10 - 1/8" Caliber/Bore: .54 Smoothbore FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: Harpers Ferry Model: 1805 Serial Number: 432