Original British Napoleonic Tower Flintlock Light Dragoon Pistol marked to 23rd Light Dragoons – circa 1800 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This Flintlock Pistol dates to prior the Battle of Waterloo, however the 23rd Light Dragoons did take part in the great battle that finally defeated Napoleon Bonaparte in 1815, so it might just have been there. The Lock Plate is marked (CROWN) / G.R. under the pan, with TOWER across the tail, indicating production at the Tower armory for military use.

The pistol is a standard full stocked flintlock pistol and has all brass mounts. The top of the barrel is marked to the 23rd Regiment of Light Dragoons:

XXIII REG’T L-Ds

The ramrod is brass mounted walnut and not of the ‘swivel” type later introduced as the New Land Pattern, which was based on East India Company innovations.

The 23rd Light Dragoons was a cavalry regiment of the British Army which existed several times, initially raised by Sir John Burgoyne or SARITOGA fame in 1781. This pistol would have been from their Third Incarnation. Their battle honors were: Talavera, Peninsula, Egypt, and Waterloo.

This third instance of the regiment was formed on 10 March 1803 by re-numbering the 26th Light Dragoons, and served in Spain, Egypt and at Waterloo.  It saw extensive service in Spain, Egypt and at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. On the day its Lt.Colonel, the Earl of Portarlington, was absent so command fell to MAJOR JOHN MERVIN CUTCLIFFE who was very badly wounded in the battle.

Following the end of the Napoleonic Wars, the regiment was disbanded at Radipole Barracks on 24 November 1817. The 26th Light Dragoons had been raised in 1795 by Major-General Russell Manners.

Notable officers who served in the regiment include Frederick Cavendish Ponsonby, Sir William Payne-Gallwey, 1st Baronet, Joseph Muter and Henry Fane.

In fine tight and all original condition showing no restoration in fine condition. 9″ .65″ smooth bore barrel bearing faint British Proof Marks. The hammer face shows some old pitting marks but otherwise this is just fine.

Absolutely original, a highly desirable Flintlock Dragoon Pistol from the Napoleonic Wars!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1800
Caliber: .65″ Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 15 1/2 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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