1027

Engraved Brass Scottish T. Murdoch Flintlock Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 4,000.00 USD
Engraved Brass Scottish T. Murdoch Flintlock Pistol
Except for part of the trigger, the ram rod, hammer, frizzen and spring, this pistol is all brass construction and 9 1/4 inches overall in length. The pistol was manufactured in 1784 and features scroll and feather design engraving covering about 90% of the pistol. The only visible marking is "T / MURDOCH" below the flash pan and script "JL / 1784" behind the breech. There is a belt hook mounted on the left side of the frame and the trigger is a shaft and ball style. The butt is lobe shaped. Thomas Murdoch (of Leith) worked in this period and a similar example (also dated 1784) is photographed on plate VII, figure 28 of European Hand Firearms by Jackson and Whitelow. It differs in that it is made of steel and is nearly three inches longer, but shares many of the same characteristics as this fine example.
BBL: 5 3/8 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 52
Finish: bright
Grips: brass
Serial Number: NSN
Condition: Very fine. The brass has been cleaned at some time and is beginning to age. All metal parts have a smooth silver gray patina. The markings and engraving are clear. The action is fine.