The Virginia Manufactory also known as the Virginia State Armory in Richmond produced muskets and pistols for the Virginia militia in the early 19th century. Only around 4,000 pistols (two models) were manufactured compared to 58,000 muskets and 10,000 swords in 1802-1821. Only 2,208 of these First Model pistols were manufactured around 1805 to 1811. These pistols were the largest U.S. martial pistols ever manufactured and were built using sections from burst musket barrels. Unlike many other martial pistols, these were issued as individual pistols, not pairs, to help stretch the supply and because the saber was seen as the Virginia cavalryman's main weapon. Many of these weapons would have been used in the defense of the state during the War of 1812. The Virginia militia engaged with the British in at least 40 instances around the Chesapeake Bay, including the infamous defeat Battle of Bladensburg and holding positions on Hampstead Hill as part of the land defense during the historic victory at Battle of Baltimore during which Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled Banner. Many of these pistols were later converted to percussion, and some are believed to have seen use by the Confederacy in the Civil War. This example is dated 1806 and has the correct early style stock and barrel band arrangement without the retaining spring. The lock is marked "VIRGINIA/MANUFACTORY(faint)" ahead of the hammer and "RICHMOND/1806" at the rear. The left rear of the barrel is marked with an Eagle head over recessed "P" and large "V". All iron mounting which appear to have been bright. Single double strap barrel band with brass blade front sight, iron back strap extending to the butt cap and mounted with a full smooth walnut stock.

Good. Most surfaces have been cleaned and remain bright with a smooth mottled patina on the lock, frizzen, flash pan and spring. The stock has been lightly sanded and oiled, and remains very good with a few small dents and sharp edges on the flats. With the exception noted above, the markings are clear. The action is very good. The pistol appears to be in original flintlock configuration. This is a highly desirable and very scarce Virginia Manufactory First Model pistol. Very few of these pistols have survived.