A Superb, English, Late 18th Century Duelling Pistol By One of The Worlds Greatest Gunsmiths, John Manton of Dover St. London

The serial number, 2873, dates the manufacture to circa 1798. Finely engraved steel mounts with spur trigger guard with pineapple finial. Browned twist Damascus barrel, gold inlaid with the name Manton and London. Fine walnut stock with, carved horn forend, chequered grip, and barrel retaining key. Very tight and crisp action, overall in nice condition with natural age and wear and some surface russet marking

Converted to Manton's percussion system by likely Joseph Manton sometime in the early 19th century. The pistol is serial numbered very closely to a pair of cased duelling pistols also by John Manton, freely acknowledged to be possibly the finest English duelling pistols in the world, certainly the finest ever to appear at auction, and they were estimated to be worth, several years ago, up to $180,000. That pair see a photo in the gallery are serial numbered 2837 and dated to 1797. He was supposedly making in his workshop 100 guns per annum and our pistol is numbered just 36 away from the cased pair.

John Manton is regarded as one of the most innovative English gun makers of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His inventive spirit and desire for continued improvement challenged the designs of the old masters. Manton''s patents and new designs changed the gun industry not only from a manufacturing standpoint, but also for his gentlemanly clients.

About John Manton.

John Manton was born in 1752 in Lincolnshire. He first began his career as a foreman to John Twig. At the age of 29, Manton opened his own gun shop at No. 6 Dover Street. His business quickly prospered, and he had many elite patrons, such as the Royal Family. His sons became a part of the business as well, and the firm of John Manton and Son produced a wide range of guns for their most discerning clientele.

About his duelling pistols.

One of the greatest technologies Manton refined was the accuracy of the duelling pistol. The inaccuracy of the duelling pistols as they were led to less wounds and deaths, and were designed for a quick draw. Manton wanted to improve the slow shot of the duelling pistol because of the increasingly popular event of target practise. He produced heavier barreled duelling pistols and Manton's were at a clear advantage if they were to be caught defending their honour. Many gentleman would visit the shooting gallery of Manton to practise their slow shots, and refine their precision so that they could always be ready for a duel. Including such as Lord Byron

John Manton is considered to by one of the greatest London gunmakers of his time. Around the age of 30 he started his own business at 6 Dover Street where he remained for the rest of his career. He died in late 1834, leaving his business to his son George Henry.

As with all our antique guns, no license is required as they are all unrestricted antique collectables

Code: 24861