This very fine original U.S. Model 1842 Percussion Pistol was manufactured by Henry Aston of Middletown, Connecticut, in 1850 as part of a 6000 pistol contract. The pistol has a smooth-bore barrel, iron swivel ramrod with button head, distinctive conjoined brass barrel band and side plate and brass backstrap, butt and pistol grip. The iron components are 'National Armory Bright'. The stock is black walnut with an oil finish. The lock plate is stamped: "MIDDTN/CONN./1850" in three vertical lines behind the hammer and "US/H.ASTON" in two lines ahead of it. The barrel tang is dated "1850". The top of the barrel is stamped with the inspection and proofmarks: "US/GW/P" perpendicular to the axis of the bore. The sub-inspector's mark "JH" is stamped in small letters of the left barrel flat. Single "H" and "P" sub-inspection marks are stamped on most components. The left stock flat is stamped with two inspector's marks. The sub-inspector's mark consists of the script letters JH" in an oval and the final inspection mark is the script initials "WAT" in an oval.

Very fine. The barrel, ramrod, lock plate and hammer have a smooth, 'National Armory Bright', finish. Wear is limited to some scattered and very minor age discoloration. The markings on the barrel and lock are crisp. The brass components have a mellow age patina. The stock is also in very fine condition with light handling and storage wear. The inspection marks on the left flat are sharp and completely legible. This is a very fine example of a pistol that is a key piece in any U.S. martial arms collection.