Springfield Model 1817 10.75″ Flintlock Pistol .69 Caliber 1818 Antique

SOLD FOR: $1,575.00

LSB#:  260622FM095

Make:  Harper’s Ferry 

Model:  Springfield Model 1817

Serial#:  None.

Year of Manufacture:  1818 / Antique

Caliber:  .69

Action Type:  Flintlock

Markings:   On the lock is an American Eagle and shield motif and “Harper’s Ferry 1803”.  On the top of the barrel is “1818”.   

Barrel Length:  10.75″

Sights/ Optics:  The front sight is a brass blade mounted on the forward strap of the barrel band.

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip:  Nearly full-length stock with rounded butt and steel buttcap.  There is a 3/4″ crack in the stock near the steel buttcap.  There is a poor fit between the lock and the stock.  There are scratches and compression marks throughout.  The stock rates a Good condition as antique.

Type of Finish:  Armory bright.

Finish Originality:   Original

Bore Condition:  This smoothbore is dark with corrosion, 3/10

Overall Condition:  This pistol retains 50% of its bright finish.  It displays widespread corrosion staining, corrosion pitting on the barrel band, and operational wear on the frizzen.  Overall, this pistol rates a Good condition as an antique.

Mechanics:  The action functions properly. The hammer holds at half and full cock.  We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box Paperwork and Accessories:  None.

Our Assessment:  This is a Springfield Model 1817 Flintlock — the first handgun made in quantity at the Springfield Armory.  It appears to have been from the lot of 600 assembled with leftover 1803 rifle parts (see lock marking, above) in 1818.  These are considered quite desirable by collectors, as there were only ever 1,000 made, in total.  They were apparently never issued, as an 1850 armory inventory still showed all 1,000 were present.  

This one remains functional and is in Good condition as an antique.  It retains its original flintlock mechanism (some were converted to percussion), enhancing its appeal.  Please see our photos of this venerable old warhorse.  -C.B.