British Tower 1839 Pattern Coast Guard Percussion Pistol

An excellent 1839 Pattern percussion pistol manufactured at the Tower of London armory for the British Coast Guard. The lockplate is marked with a Crown/GR at the center, with "TOWER" marked at the tail beneath the half-cock safety bar. With .67 Caliber, 6-inch barrel exhibiting various British proof marks. Right side of the stock is marked with an Arrow/BO at the wrist. Iron lock, hammer, barrel, and hinged ramrod, with brass butt, trigger guard, ramrod ferrule, and nosecap. Underside of trigger guard is carved "VI" on the lower tang and "XI" on the forward tang, with "XI" also carved into the stock, just ahead of the trigger guard. 1-piece wood stock exhibits a thick brown lacquer finish, with traces of the wood grain present in a couple of areas. The lanyard loop at the base of the butt allowed this pistol, along with a second one, to be hung on either end of a scarf, so while swiftly boarding an enemy vessel both pistols would be loaded and ready for use. Metal components exhibit a gray patina overall, with areas of oxidation, dark age related discoloration, and pitting present overall. Brass parts retain a pleasing mellow patina. Bore exhibits areas of dark pitting throughout. Action functions appropriately when cycled by hand, and holds at both half and full cock. Stock shows scattered marks and impressions from handling and storage, and a crack on the left side at the top and bottom of the screw, with a large crack present on the right side that runs from the nosecap to the ramrod ferrule. Total pistol length 11.25 inches. Ex Chesterland, OH collection.