Only an estimated 1,156 Model 1811 pistols were manufactured c. 1811-1813, and only 606 were originally manufactured with a pin fastened barrel as seen on this very fine example, making this among the rarest of all the U.S. martial pistols. Many have no doubt been lost over the last two hundred years. The lock is marked with the spread wing eagle motif over "U.STATES" in front of the cock and "S.NORTH/BERLIN./CON." at the tail. The barrel has "US" above an "eagle head/CT" sunken oval proof and "V". In this case, the "CT" is believed to represent "contract" rather than Connecticut. The flash pan, trigger guard, butt cap, ramrod pipe and left side plate are brass, the remaining parts are iron. Mounted with a walnut stock with an encircled "V/CW" inspection stamp on the left flat, and a proper hickory ramrod. Provenance: The Cranford Dalby Collection

Fine overall, the barrel and top strap have some scattered light freckling/pitting, the lock displays a smooth gray and brown patina, and the markings on the lock and barrel remain exceptionally sharp. The brass exhibits a golden patina with a few bright areas. The wood is fine as re-oiled, with a repaired section above the lock, some scattered light handling marks, and defined inspection stamp. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional example of a very scarce Simeon North Model 1811 pistol that would make a fine addition to any U.S. Martial collection!