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Rare Massachusetts Arms Single Shot Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,300.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,750.00 USD
Rare Massachusetts Arms Single Shot Pistol
Manufactured in the late 1850s, this single shot pistol features a centrally mounted hammer, Maynard primer mechanism on the right side of the frame, brass blade front sight and notched rear sight mounted on the frame. The top of the barrel flat is marked "MASS. ARMS CO. / CHICOPEE FALLS" and the primer door is marked "MAYNARDS PATENT / SEP. 22, 1845". Standard broad leaf scroll engraving on the left side of the frame and on the primer door. Fitted with smooth two piece varnished walnut grips. It has been estimated that as few as 250 and as many as 1,000 of these pistols were manufactured.
BBL: 2 1/2 inch part-octagon
Stock:
Gauge: 31 percussion
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 26


Very fine. The barrel retains 50% of the original thinning blue finish mixed with smooth brown patina. The frame retains 20% in the protected areas with the balance having a smooth brownish gray patina. The hammer shows strong original vivid case colors. The trigger guard has a smooth gray patina. The grips are very fine with most original varnish remaining and a few minor scratches on the right panel. The markings and engraving are crisp and clear. The primer functions properly and the action is fine.