One of approximately 10,000 produced by Ira N. Johnson. It is marked "US/I.N.JOHNSON" on the lock plate in front of the hammer, "MIDDTN/CONN/1854" vertically at the rear. The barrel tang is marked "1854", and the barrel is marked "US/JCB/P". It has brass mountings including the blade front sight and is fitted with a swivel type steel ramrod.

Good showing mostly a smooth grey patina and antique patina on the brass with some scattered minor dings. The lightly sanded and reoiled wood is very good with minimal handling marks, some minor chipping around the lock, and faint cartouches. Mechanically excellent.

The Model 1842 was the first U.S. martial pistol produced originally as a percussion weapon and was used primarily in the Mexican-American War with service into the Civil War era. This example was manufactured by Henry Aston in Middletown, Connecticut and is dated "1848" with standard markings and features and a removable collection mark on the trigger guard.

Fine showing mostly bright finish and an antique patina on the brass with some evidence of cleaning and some minor handling marks. The lightly sanded and reoiled wood is very fine and has a few scattered minor handling marks and crisp cartouches.