Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great example of the Pattern of 1759 Light Dragoon Flintlock Pistol, often called the "Eliott Dragoon Pistol". These are named after General George Augustus Eliott, who rose through the ranks to become Aide-de-Camp to King George II by 1756. He then originated the idea of a "Light" dragoon regiment, and was made commander of the 15th or "The Kings's Own Royal Light Dragoons". He was responsible for raising and training the regiment, as well as procuring their armaments.

This marked one of the first times that the British Board of Ordnance worked with leaders of men in the field to design new weapons, which would be better suited for their needs. The result was the P-1759 "Eliott" Light Dragoon Pistol. Later Eliott would be involved with the design of the P-1773 Saddle Ring Dragoon Carbine. The dragoon pistol continued to undergo changes, eventually becoming the Pattern of 1799, also referred to as an "Eliott" pistol. These pistols represent an important step in the way that firearms were designed and procured in the British armed forces.

The lock on this pistol is a correct early type with no bridle on the pan, and is marked with Crown over G.R. for King George II or III, as 1760 was the year of succession. The tail is marked VERNON / 1760, and there is the correct "Lock Viewer's" mark under the pan. We were unfortunately unable to locate information on the gunmaker Vernon, however we previously had a Brown Bess dated 1761 from this maker. We have also seen several other examples of flintlocks in the same type period from this maker, one from 1758, two others from 1761, and one dated 1762.

In fine tight and all original condition showing British Proof marks. It is fitted with the correct 9" .67" smooth bore barrel, which still shows visible proofs on the breech end, a rare thing to see. From what we can see, they are the CROWN / GR royal proof and the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS Birmingham Proof. The lock functions well, holding at half cock and firing at full.

Overall condition is very nice, with the expected wear from age and use. The stock has a "short ear" brass butt cap, with no nose cap, and all brass fittings The single ramrod pipe holds a brass fit wooden ramrod.

Ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: 1760
Caliber: .67" Pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 9 inches
Overall Length: 15 1/4 inches
Action: Flintlock Side Action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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