US M1816 54 CALIBRE MILITARY OFFICERS FLINTLOCK PISTOL
HISTORY
The Simeon North U.S. Contract Model 1816 Flintlock Pistol was manufactured between 1817-20 in Middletown, Connecticut. 19,374 of these were made for the U.S. military. Many were updated to the much more reliable percussion system in the 1830s. The service life was quite long for this pistol. The famous scout and Indian fighter Kit Carson fought with one of these, still in its original flintlock form, during the Mexican-American War from 1846-48. Even though percussion arms, including pistols, had been adopted by the U.S. in the 30s, it was not unusual for flintlocks to still be in use. Primary conflicts that would have involved this piece during its service life were the Seminole Wars, the Pawnee Expedition, the Mexican-American War and even the American Civil War.
ITEM DESCRIPTION
The lock is faintly marked “S. NORTH, US, MIDL. CON.”. along with the Federal Eagle. The barrel is also marked “US”. This example also has a cartouche on the left stock flat. Though many of these pistols were converted to percussion, here is a true survivor in its original flintlock form. The overall condition is good. Fully functioning action, although the hammer only stays open in the first position and does not stay open in the second position. Visible markings are legible. Ramrod present. Full 9 inch barrel. Condition is as photos display.
Caliber: .54 Flintlock