This classic pair of English dueling pistols by John Manton were manufactured c. 1798 based on the matching serial numbers found on each pistol on the underside of the barrel between the London proof marks, on the breech hook, and on the forend under the barrel. The Damascus barrels have silver blade front sights, "- - -MANTON * LONDON- - -" signed in gold inlay on the top flats, dovetailed notch rear sights, and gold bands and vent liners. The bores feature "scratch rifling". The casehardened standing breeches are engraved with martial trophy and burst designs. The flat beveled locks are signed "MANTON" and have gold lined priming pans, frizzen rollers, and sliding safeties that engage the frizzens. The pistols are equipped with single set triggers without visible adjustment screws as well as blued mounts including spurred trigger guards. The stocks have checkered bag shaped wrists with flat panels, and each pistol has a ramrod with a horn tip. The pair comes in an associated mahogany case with green baize lining, John Manton trade label, leather bound combination flask, and rods. The key and detached lock mechanism are also within the case. The case lid features a pair of crests. The pair was acquired by Norman R. Blank from Robert Mandel on June 6, 1968.

Fine with light original brown finish and Damascus patterns along the barrel along with bright gold, strong original case colors, 85% plus reblued finish on the mounts, minor oxidation and pitting concentrated at the breech, and general mild wear. The stock is also fine and has numerous scratches and dings, crisp checkering, and smooth oiled finish. Mechanically fine. The case is good with moderate age and storage related wear, detached lockwork, and replacement accessories.

As described in "A." Provenance: Robert Mandel; The Norman R. Blank Collection

Fine with light original brown finish and Damascus patterns along the barrel along with bright gold and mild pitting, some original case colors, 75% reblued finish on the mounts, minor oxidation, and general mild wear. The stock is good and has a chip absent from the tip on the left, numerous scratches and dings, and crisp checkering. Mechanically fine.