Description

Very uncommon 19th Century smoothbore muzzle loading percussion pistol based on the 1842 Lancer’s pattern pistol with captive ramrod and iron belt hook for cavalry use. Only 4 examples of this pistol are reported to exist worldwide. Lock plate does not have Royal cypher, marked Australian Royal Mail Co. which is an abbreviation of The Australian Royal Mail Steamship Navigation Company. No maker marks on barrel but a total of only 8 – 12 of these pistols were made by Westley Richards Company in Birmingham. Overall 15 ¾ inches, barrel 9 ¼ inch, 0.75 inch bore. Captive ramrod present and in good working order. Belt hook has been broken off or more likely removed for land service. Overall G-VG condition with crack in stock at front. Old repair on the grip behind the trigger guard tang means the pistol number is no longer visible. Bore is good, some shine with signs of corrosion. Action catches at half cock and gingerly at full cock with hair trigger indicating much use. Antique, no licence required to purchase or own.