AN IX Variant Gendarmerie Flintlock c1812

An interesting variant of the model AN IX (1800), French, Gendarmerie flintlock pistol.

The most noticeable variations between this pistol and the standard model AN IX is the iron flash pan, the straight side plate and the lower angle at the base of the butt cap.

The .60 caliber, round, smoothbore barrel measures 5 inches while the whole pistol measures 10 inches. The barrel is clearly engraved ‘Manuf Roy le Maubeuge’ and dated 1812.

The details of ‘Maubeuge / Manuf Imp’ are somewhat corroded but still visible on the lock. The lock holds full cock but not half cock.

The iron furniture with interesting engravings on the butt cap, is in a good polished condition.

The butt cap is marked ‘F R G’ which has been suggested to stand for the French Republican Guard.

Interestingly, the butt cap is also engraved with crown over an ‘N’ inside laurel wreath. This is a common symbol for the Emperor Napoleon Boneparte and was used by many of his supporters during, and after, his reign.

While the date of the pistol matches the Napoleonic period, more research should be done before any claims of a Boneparte connection can be made.

The walnut stock is in good used condition.

Sold as collector item.

Price includes shipping in Australia, layby available.