A VERY GOOD+ PAIR OF IRISH SILVER MOUNTED REVOLUTIONARY WAR PERIOD “QUEEN ANN” OFFICER’S PISTOLS, by F. LORD, ca. 1760s: In overall very good+ original flintlock condition. Cannon-form, turn-off/screw-type, .57 caliber, smoothbore, 6″, round, early Birmingham proofed, iron barrels with two maker’s marks and one with a clear “1” marking. Nicely figured, bulbous-form, “Queen-Ann”-type, walnut grips of classic English design, having well pronounced lobed pommels, extensive rococo silver-wire inlay (65%) and full silver mounts: grotesque-mask butt-caps of classic “Pug’s head” form and martial-theme central wrist-escutcheons with helmeted finials and “L.C.” owner’s initials. In very good original flintlock condition with sharp contours, smooth surfaces, some minor handling marks, minor abrasions and wear. Lightly engraved iron trigger-guards with an engraved barley-whirl design, on its bow. In original flintlock configuration with their original lock components, strong mainsprings, fine mechanics and smooth steel surfaces. The boxlock mechanisms/frames with finely engraved borders and scroll-engraved central panels. Each pistol signed with a “F. Lord” maker’s signature and a “Dublin” address (wear to the engraving). Francis Lord of Dublin, Ire. worked (1745-1774) and was a contractor to the Board of Ordnance. (Please see E. Heer’s: “Der Neue Stockel”, vol. 1, pg. 726). The barrels and frames with smooth polished surfaces, good engraving and a light age-patina. A very well made and Rare Pair of Silver Mounted Revolutionary War Period Irish “Queen Ann” Officer’s Pistols, ca. 1760s. Made by a recorded Dublin gunsmith; and of larger “Officer’s” size. Overall length 12″.
Images and description courtesy of Paul’s Antique Arms & Armour at: http://www.ambroseantiques.com/fpistols.htm