2439A

U.S. Army Percussion Pistol Model 1842

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,200.00 - 1,800.00 USD
U.S. Army Percussion Pistol Model 1842
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This single shot U.S. martial percussion pistol was made in the U.S. Armory. Henry Aston, who was born in London in 1803, and moved to Middletown CT., designed it He originally worked for the establishment of Simeon North as a workman of high skill, making U.S. presentation pistols for Commodores Hull and McDonough. In 1845, he received a government contract for his model 1842 pistol at $14.00 /pair, which includes a spare cone, screw driver, ball screw, bullet mold and spring vice. These pistols were produced in Palmetto Armory of Columbia , South Carolina. They were manufactured from 1945-1852. This .54 caliber, smooth bore ,8 ½” round iron barrel is marked “US” above the inspector’s initials” SM” above “P” ,for Palmetto Armory, and the date of production “1848” is on the tang. The barrel has a single brass blade front sight. The walnut stock is three quarter length,11” long with inspector’s initials stamped on the left side. The total length is 14”. It has a flat beveled lock plate 4.8” long and 1.125”wide,marked “US H ASTON” in front of the hammer and “MIDtn CONN” with the date of manufacture of “1848” behind the hammer. The trigger guard is 5’ long with round ends. The barrel is held to the stock by a single barrel; band. The pistol weighs 2lbs,12 oz. It has a swivel type ramrod with a button shaped head; the opposite end is threaded for a ball screw or wiper attachment, It has bright steel parts, except the trigger guard which is brass and the trigger which is blued. Approximately 24,000 were produced. This piece is very high condition with very distinct cartouches and very little wear. Furniture is in extremely unmarred shape with only a slight chip near the front of the lock plate. Very excellent shape, possibly a Presentation Piece. ID45770