A rare Waterloo veteran Hanoverian conversion pistol. In about 1838, fewer than 100 of these pistols were converted to percussion and then issued to the artillery.
After helping to defeat Napoleon at Waterloo in 1815, the King George III’s, ‘Kings German Legion’ was disbanded and their arms transferred to the Hanover. In about 1838, fewer than 100 of these pistols were converted to percussion and then issued to the artillery.
The lateral acting safety bolt feature of the conversion is what collectors now refer to as the Hanoverian Conversion.
The .65 calibre, round, smoothbore, sighted barrel measures 9 ¼ inches with the whole pistol measuring 15 inches. The front sight was added during the conversion.
The lock plate still bears the original ‘TOWER’ mark as well as the royal cypher and inspector’s mark. The action is in excellent working order. The arsenal conversion number ‘40’ is found on the stock, barrel, breech and barrel tang screw.
The brass furniture, including the reenforced rammer entry, is in good condition.
The walnut stock is in a solid, soldier used condition. Please note that there is a 1 ½ inch piece missing at the barrel tang.
All in all, a rare opportunity to acquire a very interesting pistol with Waterloo pedigree.