Original 19th Century Eastern Mediterranean Flintlock Holster Pistol – Circa 1800 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely patinated Eastern Mediterranean flintlock holster pistol made to follow European lines. It is marked on the top of the barrel with what looks to be L·LAZAO, though the “L”s could be “I”s. We were not able to find any makers by this name, and we assume it was made to look like a Spanish or Italian flintlock pistol. There is a lovely brass inlaid touchmark on the barrel, however there are also what look to be simulated “Crown over Crossed Scepter” markings, as would be stamped in England. The pistol was definitely made to look European to someone who was not familiar with firearms. These are often referred to as Mediterranean Pirate’s Flintlock Pistols, and they were quite popular. It does not have any provision for a ramrod, as they were carried around the neck.

Looking at the pistol, it looks to be circa 1800 production, and has the reinforcement “bridle” on the end of the pan for the frizzen, a feature introduced around this time. The pistol definitely does look to have been quite decorative when first made, and we can see evidence of carving and wire inlay on the top of the stock, which is now long gone. There also looks to have been a nose cap / band, which is also missing, though since the barrel is held in by pins, it is still secure.

The pistol measures 15 inches in overall length, and has a 9 inch smoothbore barrel measuring approximately 0.62 in bore. The brass butt cap has the usual long ears, and the trigger guard goes almost all the way to the butt cap. The engraved lock is nicely decorated with floral designs, and features a lovely swan neck cock. The barrel has some lovely engraving near the breech area below the brass inlaid touchmark. The lock is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full, though it takes a strong trigger pull, or it may get “hung up” at half cock.

Dating probably from the early 1800’s this is really a nice example with some great research potential. Ready to display!!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1800
Caliber: .62″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Overall Length: 15 inches
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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