One-of-a-kind: Only One Available. This is a mechanically perfect, attractive brass-mounted holster pistol suitable for display, research, or advanced collections.

A lovely mid-18th century Continental holster pistol, likely Dutch (or possibly German) in origin based on style and high-quality brass fittings. This unmarked example displays excellent original condition, a mechanically perfect lock, and attractive decorative touches that make it an outstanding piece for a collector or museum.

Highlights

Original / One available: Only one example — rare to find in this condition.

Mechanically perfect lock: The flintlock is fully functional and offered in full working order (antique mechanism; sold as a collectible).

Attractive materials & finish: Light hardwood stock with detailed brass mounts and a brass butt cap featuring a grotesque mask.

Unmarked but well-attributed: No visible maker’s mark; stylistic and construction details point to Dutch or German manufacture circa 1740–1760.

Proportions: Overall length 18½" with a polished steel barrel of 12½" — elegant holster pistol dimensions ideal for officer’s or civilian use of the period.

Caliber: .56" (approx.)

Description & Notable Details

Type: Flintlock holster pistol (continental style)

Date: Circa 1740–1760

Origin: Attributed Dutch or German (unmarked)

Barrel: 12½" polished steel barrel — intact and in line with period holster pistol proportions

Overall length: 18½"

Stock: Light hardwood, nicely shaped and well preserved

Mounts & furniture: Heavy brass mounts; brass butt cap with a carved grotesque mask motif — finely executed for a holster pistol of this class

Action: Flintlock, muzzle-loaded — lock functions perfectly (holds at half cock and operates at full cock)

Condition: Very good overall; metal and wood show age-appropriate wear and attractive patina consistent with proper care and storage. Replacement hammer jaw screw and replacement ramrod. .

Historical Background — Dutch Flintlock Pistols (c.1700–1760)

During the 18th century the Low Countries and neighboring German states were important centers for fine small-arms production and trade. Dutch pistols were widely used by naval officers, merchants, and affluent civilians; they also circulated throughout northern Europe and in colonial markets.

Common characteristics of Dutch and northern Continental pistols of this era include:

Light hardwood (beech/fruitwood) stocks shaped for comfortable carry in a holster.

Brass furniture — trigger guards, side plates, and butt caps — often decorated with masks, grotesques, or restrained engraving reflecting period taste.

Reliable, well-made flintlocks designed to perform in maritime and field conditions.

Frequent cross-influences with German and Liège (Belgian) workshops; many pistols are unmarked or bear only proof marks, making attribution reliant on stylistic and technical details.

This pistol’s combination of a light, well-shaped stock, high-quality brass mounts, and the grotesque butt cap places it squarely within that tradition: practical, durable, and made with an eye for modest ornamentation. Its compact size and finished barrel make it especially suitable for display in a holster or as part of a naval or officer’s grouping.

Specifications:
Years of Manufacture: 1740–1760
Caliber: .56" (approx.)
Ammunition Type: Lead ball & powder (muzzle-loaded)
Barrel Length: 18 1/2 in. (≈330 mm)
Overall Length: 12 1/2 in. (≈508 mm)
Action: Flintlock
Feed System: Muzzle-loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.

IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.

These antique guns are not sold in "live" condition. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers". Any attempt at restoring an antique gun to be operational is strongly discouraged and is done so at the risk of the customer. By purchasing an antique gun from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our Antique guns.

Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services.