Mid 19th Century H. Aston Stamped Model 1842 Percussion Cap Military Pistol Dated 1848
Henry Aston received a contract from the U.S. War Department in February 1845 for 30,000 of these pistols which were delivered between 1846 and 1852, after which (under a separate contract) an Ira N Johnston continue production.
This model of pistol was the U.S. Army's first shift into the percussion cap system and was used during the Mexican/American and American Civil War.
Apart from some "powder pitting" around the percussion nipple, this one is in lovely condition with the lock and hammer maintaining nearly all of its original colouration and clearly stamped "U.S H. Aston" and "MIDDtn CONN 1848".
The rest of the steelwork is clean and the barrel is stamped NWP (initials for the Inspector Nahum W Patch) and below this J H (initials for another Inspector Joseph Hannis).
The mainspring is strong and the action is smooth and crisp in both half and full positions and the swivel ramrod is also smooth in operation.
The brasswork is clean and in good condition and has a lovely unpolished patina.
All brass parts are stamped with an H Inspection mark.
The half stock is also in great shape with very few bruises and just the one crack between the rear of the lockplate and trigger guard.
The stock also has 2 faint oval cartouches stamped just behind the brass sideplate.
An interesting piece of American history in beautiful condition.
Barrel length 21.5cm, Overall condition 35.5cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable ornamental item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
