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Exceptional and Rare A and J Ansted Model 1827 Marine Corps Flintlock Boarding Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:4,000.00 USD Estimated At:10,000.00 - 30,000.00 USD
Exceptional and Rare A and J Ansted Model 1827 Marine Corps Flintlock Boarding Pistol
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A rare example of one of the 150 pistols contracted by Adam & Joseph Ansted for the U.S. Marine Corps in 1827. This 150 arm order was part of a series of U.S. Navy trials initiated in 1826 by Commander William Bainbridge and the Board of Naval Commissioners, where seven arms manufacturers were invited to produce a series of test pistols to suit different needs. The Anstead contract was handled by Colonel Richard Smith, USMC, who sought a potent holster pistol for arming Marine boarding crews. The pistol has a bright finished, round barrel with double-strapped, spring-fastened band. A brass front sight blade is located on the rear strap of the barrel band. The front of the bright finished lock plate is flat with beveled edges and the rear is rounded. The lock has a rounded, reinforced hammer and a detachable brass pan. The side plate, trigger guard and buttcap are iron. The oil-finished walnut stock has no provision for a ramrod. The lock plate is marked with a script "A" above the date "1827". The left stock flat is stamped with a "C" indicating that the pistol was inspected by Chief Inspector Captain Thomas Ap. Catesby Jones, U.S.N., and the "V' inspection mark of Colonel Richard Smith. Smith's "S" inspection mark is located on the top of the barrel. The serial number, "128" is stamped on the left side of the stock behind the barrel band. An old brass collection tag numbered "B535" is (affixed) to the top of the grip.
BBL: 9 7/8 In
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 72 bore
Finish: bright
Grips:
Serial Number: 128
Condition: Excellent. The pistol has not been cleaned and is in original, un-issued condition. The metal surfaces have brown aged patina; portions of the lock are covered with dried hardened grease. There is no flash pitting on the barrel or lock. The pistol is in the original flintlock configuration. The stock is in very fine condition with sharp edges and only scattered and very minor storage wear. All of the markings on the stock, barrel and lock plate are sharp. This is an exceptional example of a highly desirable U.S. Marine Corps Model 1827 Flintlock Boarding Pistol.