This .54 caliber, smoothbore, pistol is one of approximately 18,000 Model 1836 pistols manufactured by Robert Johnson of Middletown, Connecticut between 1836 and 1844. This pistol was subsequently converted to percussion. Percussion converted Model 1836 pistols were extensively used in the Civil War. The pistol has an 8 1/2 inch round barrel with a brass front sight blade, swivel ramrod with button head and iron mountings. The barrel, ramrod, buttcap, barrel band and trigger guard are "bright". The lock plate, hammer, and tang are casehardened. The trigger and lock screws are blued. The lock is marked "U.S. / R.JOHNSON / MIDDNCONN / 1843" below the remnants of the brass pan. Inspection and proof marks "JH / P" are stamped on the left rear of the barrel.

Good. The barrel has a smooth brown-gray patina. There is some minor flash pitting, along with some minor pitting (mostly on the barrel and side plate) and some minor spotting (mostly on the backstrap). The hammer and lock plate have a smooth dark patina, with a smooth brown patina on the remaining surfaces. The oiled stock is fine with a few pressure dents and some minor dings and scratches, along with a couple absent chips. Mechanically fine.