This antique pistol, from the late 1700s / early 1800s, is an .68 caliber, single-shot, original military flintlock pistol often referred to as English side pistol. Specimen, in very good overall condition, is a fine looking, smoothbore muzzleloader that measures 15½” long, has a huge .68 caliber charge with a 9” round barrel, and is fitted with brass furniture. Weapon is not a re-conversion. Pistol’s dark gray colored steel lockplate is contoured to a small point behind the flat hammer and marked with the maker’s stamp “TOWER” of London, England. Plate area in front of hammer is stamped with the Victoria Crown bearing a small Maltese-type cross above crown and the initials “G R” below the crown. Directly under pan is a viewer’s mark with a broad arrow. Frizzen, frizzen spring, and pan are all original but hammer is missing its jaw and jaw screw. Hammer mechanics are poor and need work. Flint is missing. Two small British proof marks are visible on the upper left facet at the barrel breech, one proof mark stamped on right facet and another proof found on the breech tang.

The full walnut stock is in very good condition and shows rounded contours with just a few dings and dents. Has an iron key back of nose cap. No chips but the ramrod entry area at bottom of stock exhibits two, very old 2” long surface cracks. Original varnish shows scuffing in areas but pistol appears not to have been cleaned. Small viewer’s mark seen on left flat. Brass triggerguard has a plain front extension and rear extension while the bottom of the brass bow bears the identification that reads “7 L D / 7”. Brass side plate complete with screws. Pistol retains its original iron, button-head, swivel ramrod, brass nose cap and brass pommel cap. All screws are in good, unbuggered condition. A fine, identified, single-shot English ‘Tower’ military pistol from the early 1800s, this sidearm makes a handsome addition to any antique pistol collection.

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire.

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