Also known as the Model 1843 or Navy Box Lock Model 1843 manufactured by N.P. Ames of Springfield Massachusetts and Henry Derringer of Philadelphia circa 1842 to 1847. Ames manufactured about 2,000 of these pistols. The pistol had a bright barrel and swivel type steel ramrod with a button shaped head, casehardened lock plate and hammer and brass trigger guard, barrel band and buttcap. The lock is marked "USN / 1845" vertically at the rear and "N.P. AMES / SPRINGFIELD / MASS." (partially visible), below the hammer and fits flush to the stock. The top of the barrel, at the bolster, is marked "USN / 1844 / RP / R". The right side of the hammer is stamped with the letter "R". The stock is smooth one piece walnut with no visible cartouches or inspection markings.

Good. The barrel has a dull gray patina with a coat of protective varnish and some moderate pitting. The lock and hammer have a smooth dark patina with much of the original casehardening pattern visible. The brass has an even mellow aged patina. The stock has had a light coat of varnish applied and remains very good with a minor crack behind the lock and a few overall scattered minor dings and dents. The nipple is a replacement. The markings are light on both the barrel and lock plate. The action is fine.