This U.S. contract Model 1842 smoothbore percussion pistol was manufactured by Henry Aston of Middletown, Connecticut in 1847 and subsequently embellished later in the 19th century, most likely by Tiffany & Co. of New York City for presentation. The pistol has the distinctive swivel-mounted steel ramrod and brass barrel band with strap extension and integral side plate. The iron barrel, hammer, lock plate and ramrod are finished 'National Armory Bright'. The barrel band/side plate, buttcap with integral buttcap and trigger guard are gilded engraved brass. The one-piece stock is oil finished black walnut. The lock plate has beveled edges and is roll-stamped "U.S./H. ASTON" in front of the hammer. "MIDDTN/CONN./1847" is roll-stamped behind the hammer in three vertical lines. The barrel tang is dated "1848" and the left side of the barrel is stamped with "U.S./NWP/P" inspection and proof marks perpendicular to the axis of the bore. The left stock flat is stamped with the script initials of the Ordnance final inspector ("WAT") in an oval cartouche and sub-inspector's script initials in a rectangle with rounded ends. The brass buttcap/back strap, barrel band/side plate and trigger guard have been gold plated and expertly engraved with scroll work, floral patterns and geometric designs. The top of the barrel has been acid-etched, most likely by Tiffany of New York, with the date "Dec. 25th 1886" in Old English letters surrounded by scrollwork and floral designs. The lock plate, hammer and bolster retain the original bright finish and are not decorated. The stock has the original oil finish. The engraving and etching are professionally executed high quality work. This is an attractive one-of-a-kind U.S. contract Model 1842 Aston percussion pistol with period gold plating, engraving and acid-etched decorations.