This is an example of a British New Sea Service percussion pistol manufactured circa 1844. The pistol was one of many manufactured with conversion flintlock parts from late flintlock muskets. The pistol features a 9 7/8 inch, .50 caliber, smoothbore barrel with an iron ramrod with trumpet head. The pistol has a brass trigger guard, left side plate and buttcap with iron parts remaining. The lock plate is stamped with the "crown / VR" behind the hammer and "TOWER", "crown / broad arrow" and "1844" in front of the hammer. The left rear of the barrel is marked with two crown over scepter proof marks and a "16". The barrel tang is marked "6 L / 249", the left side of the barrel band is marked with a "WL" and an "H" in a circle. The left stock flat is marked with a "CP".

Good. The metal surfaces have a dark patina with some flash pitting around the bolster, minor pitting on the barrel band and a few minor tool marks on the left side, rear of the barrel. The brass components have an aged patina with minor dings on the buttcap. The stock is very good with a few small gouges on the right side grip area and scattered minor dents and dings. The edges of the flats remain sharp. The markings are clear. The action is good.

This is a unique example of a Robbins & Lawrence percussion longarm pistol that reportedly was cut down from a percussion for use by prison guards, bank and coach guards, etc. These pistols were professionally done using fine condition longarms that were manufactured circa 1848 to 1853. The pistol has a 14 inch 54 caliber rifled barrel, measures 21 inches in total length, has brass mountings, an iron ram rod with swelled brass head, blade front and fixed iron rear sights and mounted with a one piece full walnut stock secured by two barrel bands. The lock is marked "ROBBINS / & / LAWRENCE/U.S." in front of the hammer and "WINDSOR VT / 1852" vertically behind the hammer. The left rear of the barrel is marked "U.S. / SK / P".

Very good as period modified. The metal surfaces have a smooth brown patina. The brass has an aged patina. The stock has been sanded and re-varnished and remains very good with a minor repair on the left side wrist and in front of the trigger guard. There is a small splintered piece missing just behind the rear barrel band and a couple of small gouges on the left, upper side, otherwise only minor handling marks. The markings are clear. The action is fine. Both pistols are from the Will Hoffeld Collection.