Produced from 1842 through1847, these were the standard US Navy percussion single-shot pistol in 1850s and widely issued. The 1852 Ordnance Instructions for the US Navy allotted them in numbers ranging from 60 to a second-class steamer up to 360 for a three-deck ship of the line. These are .54 caliber, with a six-inch barrel retained by a brass barrel band, made with no rear sight, and with the majority, like this one, made also without a front sight, the ramrod retained by a swivel, the grip is rather round in cross-section, and the buttcap round and inset.

Flayderman estimated 2,000 were produced, including an early production of 300 dated 1842 that had lockplates with beveled front edge, and the remainder, with flat lock plates fitted flush to the stock, dated 1843 through 1847, usually designated the M1843 or simply the “standard production.” This one is clearly marked on the lockplate “N.P. AMES / SPRINGFIELD / MASS” below the hammer and “U.S.N / 1843” at the rear of the plate. The left breech of the barrel is stamped “504” in small numerals and is proofed above that “USN / 1844/ P,” indicating the pistol was likely assembled early in that year.

The pistol rates very good for condition, with the barrel cleaned to bright, showing some thin gray age spots, as does the lock plate, but with the smooth metal still showing clear markings and with a tight fit of the wood, which shows good color and surface.  [jet][ph:L]