This is an example of a John Fleeger (1807-1882) manufactured underhammer pistol. Entering the gunsmith trade as a Thomas Allison apprentice, Fleeger established himself as an outstanding Pennsylvanian gunsmith. During a career that spanned fifty years, Fleeger rarely advertised, indicating that his reputation as an exceptional gunsmith guaranteed him a steady workload. Much of his work has survived and is in demand by today's collectors. This underhammer pistol features the two-line marker marking on the top barrel flat: "J. FLEEGER / ALLEGHENY". Blade front and notch rear barrel sights, silver plated brass trigger guard and fitted with a one-piece bag shaped grip with two silver geometric inlays on each side and a silver oval thumb plate. With a short John Fleeger biography excerpted from a book.

Fine with most of a crisp brown finish remaining overall with light edge wear, some minor scratches and a few minor scuff marks. The brass has a smooth aged patina with small traces of silvered out plating in the protected areas. The silver inlays are turning an aged patina. The trigger guard is slightly loose. The wood is very good with a period repair, some minor scratches and pressure dents and a few light gouges. The marking is clear.