Original British East India Company Model 1843 Percussion Dragoon Pistol – Unmarked Gift to Nepal Original Items

Original Item: Only one available. This is a standard British EIC Cavalry Pistol adopted in 1843, fitted with is known as the “new series side lock”. This pistol replaced the Model of 1840 that had the “old series side lock” which appeared (but wasn’t) to have been constructed from flintlock parts. This pattern 1843 became the principal handgun of the East India Company up until it was taken over by the British home Government in 1859.

This originated from our Nepalese Palace purchase of 2003, and is completely unmarked on the exterior, indicating that it was gifted to Nepal by the EIC. The intention was most likely that they would mark it themselves, and as it would no longer be EIC property, they did not want their markings on it. It has the correct trapped swivel ramrod for use while mounted on a horse, and the standard lanyard ring on the butt, to keep the pistol itself from being dropped.

The pistol has a lovely aged patina overall, showing that it was well cared for, and the lock is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. The ramrod still functions correctly, and overall it is a very solid example of this type of pistol. The lock definitely looks to be British manufacture, though the other components may have been made locally in India, and without any markings it is difficult to tell.

Please see the wonderful work by David Harding, SMALL ARMS OF THE EAST INDIA COMPANY Volume 2 pages 302 to 308 for full details including the original acquisition cost to the EIC of 32 Shillings, at today’s rate of exchange that would only be $2.40 each!

A very nice example, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: .67″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 15 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion lock side action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.