Original British Napoleonic Light Cavalry Pistol named to Capt. Edward Kelly of the 1st Life Guards at Waterloo Original Items

Original Item: One of a Kind. This Flintlock Pistol dates to prior the Battle of Waterloo, however the 1st Life Guards did take part in the great battle that finally defeated Napoleon Bonaparte in 1815 so it might just have been there. At The Battle of WATERLOO on June 18th 1815 it took part in the Great Charge of the Union Brigade against the French.

The pistol is a standard full stocked flintlock pistol, marked with Crown over G.R. and J. & W. RICHARDS across the tail of the lock. Joseph & William Richards were active 1808-1810 on Staining Lane in London per Howard L. Blackmore. This tells us that this pistol was acquired by “Private Purchase” by the Officer named as Officers were expected to supply their own weapons. The pistol has has all brass mounts and the brass butt cap is engraved 1ST. L. GDS. / EDWARD KELLY. 

Research shows that EDWARD KELLY was a CAPTAIN in the 1ST LIFE GUARDS at the BATTLE OF WATERLOO and is recorded as “Wounded”. It further states that he was born at Portarlington in Queen’s County, Ireland in 1771. At Waterloo he encountered and killed the Colonel of the French 1st Regiment of Cuirassiers, stripped him of his Epaulettes and carried them off as a trophy. He was made a Brevet Major for this action and survived the Battle. He died in India on August 6th.1828.

The ramrod is of horn tipped walnut and not of the “swivel” type later introduced as the New Land Pattern.of Dragoon Pistol. In fine tight and all original condition showing no restoration and only light cleaning leaving masses of patina. The barrel is 9″ and of .65″ smooth bore barrel bearing British Proof Marks. Lock holds half cock, and fires correctly at full cock.

A highly desirable Named Flintlock pistol from the Napoleonic Wars, ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1808-1810
Caliber: .65″ Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 16 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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