Original British Fur-Trade Flintlock Pistol by Sharpe of London with Birmingham Proofed Barrel – circa 1820 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The London Gun maker Joseph Sharpe was in business from 1800 until 1840, and we have had several examples of his work previously. Initially he contracted with the Hudson Bay Company to supply these good quality Flintlock pistols that were traded to Native Americans in exchange for FUR PELTS that were eagerly desired in the European Fashion Trade. He would also be known for his brass pocket pistols, and for a time worked with William Keene of Birmingham who worked 1808-1815.

This pistol is marked SHARPE on the lock plate, and is fully brass mounted, much like other Fur Trade pistols of the period. It is 15 inches in overall length, and features a 9 inch .60″ caliber smoothbore barrel, which is marked LONDON on the top. The barrel also has the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC “proof” and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V “viewed” marks from the English city of Birmingham on the top near the breech. These are the correct markings for 1813 and later manufacture. There is also what looks to be a maker mark between them, which we cannot make out. It comes complete with a wooden ramrod, which is probably a period replacement for display.

The pistol is in lovely condition, with a nice matured patina on the metalwork, and a lovely finished stock. The wood used has a lot of character to the grain, which does have a few stress cracks along the grain. The stock does not have a butt cap, a common style, and there is a brass escutcheon on the back of the grip, which is unmarked. There is no major damage, just the expected wear from use and age. We checked the lock, and it is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full.

A lovely example from the early 19th century, ready to research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1820
Caliber: .60″ Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 15 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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