Western Europe, France or Germany, ca. 19th century CE. This is an interesting military flintlock pistol adapted to use as a warning or alarm system when intruders triggered the firing mechanism via a wire. The iron barrel has a smooth bore hole, brass fittings, a wooden stock, and the nickel-silver ramrod fits into a housing under the barrel. The iron lockplate has a flintlock firing mechanism and a faint maker stamp on the plate. A large ion bolt protrudes at a right angle from the barrel, to support the gun when mounted. Several drilled holes though the trigger guard, and back stock allow the iron wire to be threaded through the stock and the trigger. The pistol would be set in a stationary area to go off when a door was opened, or a foot trip line triggered the wire. Ingenious and very interesting piece of protection! Size: 14" L x 6" W (35.6 cm x 15.2 cm)

Provenance: private Glorieta, New Mexico, USA collection

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#168753

Abrasions and surface chips and pitting on iron. Marks on lockplate are rubbed and indiscernible. Stamped marks opposite on wood stock are also indiscernible. Proof marks on trigger guard and butt cap are clear and discernable. Hammer and trigger are stiff but articulate. Gun has not been tested for firing functionality. Rare type!