Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this LIMITED EDITION cased pair of flintlock pistols for a penny-start auction; these are the U.S. Historical Society Replicas of George Washington's Hawkins Flintlock Pistols!
The United States Bicentennial Society proudly certifies that this pair of official silver-inlaid Flintlock Pistols are meticulously handcrafted replicas of the pistols once owned by George Washington. The original pistols, made in London in 1748, are now housed in the Museum at West Point Military Academy. These commemorative replicas have been produced in a limited edition of 975, with Set Number One presented to the West Point Museum. Enclosed with this letter are your Certificates of Authenticity for the Washington Flintlock Pistols, Registry Numbers 138 and 139.
According to one signed by Merrill Lindsay, “I have just returned from the Centaure manufactory in Liege, Belgium, where the pistols are being made. All parts, including frizzens, pans, triggers, locks, barrels, and silver inlays, have been completed, and the craftsmen are now hand-carving and finishing the stocks and fitting the parts with precision. Each pair takes a full week for a craftsman to carve. Due to this intricate process, the delivery has taken longer than expected, but I have been assured that a substantial number of pistols will be ready for shipment in December, with yours being among the first to be delivered. The overwhelming interest in the Washington Pistols has exceeded our expectations, highlighting the appreciation for museum-quality arms, and I am grateful for your patience as we work to fulfill your order. I will continue to keep you updated on the status of your sets.”
Don't forget to bid on the matching serial-numbered sister for this set to stay together for future generations of collectors!!! Simply type item number 1097974840 into the search bar, OR you can click “Seller's other items.”
This particular example is part of a two-piece matching serial set! This example sports the serial number (#138A & 138B), and the matching pair in the other auction bears the serial number (#139A & 139B)!
YOU CAN FIND THE OTHER MATCHING SERIAL NUMBER EXAMPLE LIVE ON GUNBROKER NOW BY TYPING #1097974840 IN THE SEARCH BAR!
The owner states that this example remains New Old Stock, showing no evidence of consumer use or handling that we can see.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Both Pistols Hold the Same Set of Specifications
Manufacturer: U.S. Historical Society
Model: Replica George Washington's Hawkins Flintlock Pistols
Serial: 138A & 138B
Date of Manufacture: 1976
Caliber: 58 Cal.
Finish: Bronze Barrel
Barrel Length: 8" Bronze Smooth Bore Barrel
Optics/Sights: Fixed
Stock/Grips: Smooth One-Piece Walnut Stock with Ornate Silver Inlays
Action: Flintlock
Markings: The tops of both barrels are engraved with "LONDON" and serial numbers "138 A" and "138 B." Each lock plate bears the Historical Society logo. On the left side of barrel 138 A, you'll find the Historical Society logo, along with the stamp "14.4" and Belgium proof marks. Similarly, the left side of barrel 138 B displays the Historical Society logo and Belgium proof marks.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge marked a defining moment in the American Revolution, where General George Washington and his Continental Army endured severe hardships that tested their resolve and commitment to the cause. With 12,000 troops and around 400 women and children, Washington's forces battled extreme cold, illness, and a lack of essential supplies. The suffering was compounded by starvation, exposure, and the spread of diseases like influenza and typhoid, which claimed the lives of approximately 2,000 soldiers. In contrast, the British army was comfortably stationed about 20 miles away in Philadelphia, living in warm homes and enjoying far superior conditions. Despite these challenges, the winter at Valley Forge became a period of transformation for the Continental Army. With the assistance of Baron Friedrich von Steuben, a Prussian military officer, the army underwent intensive training, learning European military tactics that would prove crucial in subsequent battles. Washington also solidified his leadership by fending off internal dissent and working to secure vital supplies from the Continental Congress. The signing of the Treaty of Alliance with France in February 1778 marked another turning point, signaling international support for the American cause.
Model: Replica George Washington's Hawkins Flintlock Pistols
Serial: 138A & 138B
Date of Manufacture: 1976
Caliber: 58 Cal.
Finish: Bronze Barrel
Barrel Length: 8" Bronze Smooth Bore Barrel
Optics/Sights: Fixed
Stock/Grips: Smooth One-Piece Walnut Stock with Ornate Silver Inlays
Action: Flintlock
Markings: The tops of both barrels are engraved with "LONDON" and serial numbers "138 A" and "138 B." Each lock plate bears the Historical Society logo. On the left side of barrel 138 A, you'll find the Historical Society logo, along with the stamp "14.4" and Belgium proof marks. Similarly, the left side of barrel 138 B displays the Historical Society logo and Belgium proof marks.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge marked a defining moment in the American Revolution, where General George Washington and his Continental Army endured severe hardships that tested their resolve and commitment to the cause. With 12,000 troops and around 400 women and children, Washington's forces battled extreme cold, illness, and a lack of essential supplies. The suffering was compounded by starvation, exposure, and the spread of diseases like influenza and typhoid, which claimed the lives of approximately 2,000 soldiers. In contrast, the British army was comfortably stationed about 20 miles away in Philadelphia, living in warm homes and enjoying far superior conditions. Despite these challenges, the winter at Valley Forge became a period of transformation for the Continental Army. With the assistance of Baron Friedrich von Steuben, a Prussian military officer, the army underwent intensive training, learning European military tactics that would prove crucial in subsequent battles. Washington also solidified his leadership by fending off internal dissent and working to secure vital supplies from the Continental Congress. The signing of the Treaty of Alliance with France in February 1778 marked another turning point, signaling international support for the American cause.
Among the personal challenges Washington faced during this difficult period, a seemingly small yet significant event occurred in early spring 1778 that lifted his spirits. Captain Henry Fauntleroy delivered a pair of finely crafted English pistols to Washington, a gift from Colonel Thomas Turner, an admirer of Washington's leadership and dedication to the revolutionary cause. The pistols, intricately designed with silver mounts and engraved with Washington's name, served as a tangible reminder of the support he received from patriotic citizens. Washington, although not accustomed to accepting gifts, expressed his sincere gratitude through a letter, and the pistols became a lasting symbol of his commitment to the struggle for independence. Over the course of the war, Washington carried these pistols, which would accompany him through many key moments of the revolution. The pistols eventually found their way to the West Point Museum, where they continue to serve as a powerful artifact of Washington's legacy. These pistols not only reflect Washington's personal leadership but also represent the broader efforts of countless individuals who contributed to the success of the American Revolution. The story of the pistols, from their origins as a gift to their eventual preservation at West Point, highlights the deep connection between Washington and the people who supported him during the nation's fight for independence.
The United States Bicentennial Society proudly certifies that this pair of official silver-inlaid Flintlock Pistols are meticulously handcrafted replicas of the pistols once owned by George Washington. The original pistols, made in London in 1748, are now housed in the Museum at West Point Military Academy. These commemorative replicas have been produced in a limited edition of 975, with Set Number One presented to the West Point Museum. Enclosed with this letter are your Certificates of Authenticity for the Washington Flintlock Pistols, Registry Numbers 138 and 139. According to one signed by Merrill Lindsay, “I have just returned from the Centaure manufactory in Liege, Belgium, where the pistols are being made. All parts, including frizzens, pans, triggers, locks, barrels, and silver inlays, have been completed, and the craftsmen are now hand-carving and finishing the stocks and fitting the parts with precision. Each pair takes a full week for a craftsman to carve. Due to this intricate process, the delivery has taken longer than expected, but I have been assured that a substantial number of pistols will be ready for shipment in December, with yours being among the first to be delivered. The overwhelming interest in the Washington Pistols has exceeded our expectations, highlighting the appreciation for museum-quality arms, and I am grateful for your patience as we work to fulfill your order. I will continue to keep you updated on the status of your sets.”
Contents:
Contents:
This set is in overall very fine condition, showing no visible evidence of consumer use or handling! Additionally, it will ship with the original display case, featuring a lid inscribed “Michael E. Snyder / Set No. 138” and two matching Certificate of Authenticity, as seen in the picture above.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
