3016

Rare "1815" Dated, 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory Flintlock Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,000.00 USD Estimated At:7,500.00 - 13,000.00 USD
Rare  1815  Dated, 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory Flintlock Pistol
This is an example of a Flintlock 2nd Model horseman's pistol that was manufactured by the Virginia Manufactory in Richmond, Virginia in 1815. The pistol closely resembles the Harpers Ferry U.S. Model 1805 Flintlock Pistol. The Virginia Manufactory made an estimated 2044 2nd Model Flintlock Pistols between 1812 and 1815. The estimated 366 pistols made in 1815 had distinctive lock markings and are considered to be rare. The pistol has a bright-finished barrel, lock and ramrod with brass trigger guard, buttcap, side plate, ramrod tail pipe and barrel band. The wedge-fastened stock is oil-finished black walnut. The round, smoothbore, barrel is not fitted with front or rear sights and has a prominent under-rib with attached swivel and button-head ramrod. The lock plate is flat with beveled edges, a prominent tip and integral fenced pan. The reinforced hammer has a flat face and a notched hammer spur. The frizzen has a curved toe. The lock plate is stamped with the date "1815" in a vertical line behind the hammer and "RICHMOND" in an upward curve below the pan. These markings are found only on the 366 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory pistols made in 1815. The brass buttcap has the distinctive spurs and the trigger guard has a pointed front finial. The letter "V" is stamped three times on the inside of the trigger guard. The 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory pistols remained in state service until the Civil War; some examples were issued to cavalry regiments at the start of the war. The pistol is considered to be a secondary Confederate handgun.
BBL: 10 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 54 bore
Finish: bright
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Condition: Very good as reconverted. The pistol appears to be an expert re-conversion from percussion to flintlock configuration. The pistol has been carefully cleaned. The surfaces of the barrel and lock are generally smooth. There is minor pitting surrounding the flash hole. The re-engraved lock markings are crisp. The brass furniture is in very good condition with an attractive, unpolished patina. The stock has been lightly sanded and is in good condition. There is a repaired crack on the right side of the stock between the tip and the edge of the lock plate and smaller repaired cracks on the right side of the butt and on the left side of the stock between the tail pipe and side plate. This is a solid representative example of a rare Secondary Confederate handgun that is extremely difficult to obtain in any condition.