This is an exceptional example of a U.S. contract Model 1836 pistol that was manufactured by Robert Johnson of Middletown, Connecticut, in 1842. The Model 1836 was the last and arguably finest of the flintlock U.S. martial pistols. It was the primary handgun issued to the U.S. Dragoons and Mounted Rifles during the Mexican-American War and continued to be used into the Civil War after being converted for percussion caps. This example appears to have seen little, if any, use at all and is still in its original flintlock configuration. It has a rounded blade front sight, a dished oval rear sight on the barrel tang, a swivel mounted ramrod, a detachable brass flash pan, "US./JH/P" marked on the breech of the barrel, "US./R. JOHNSON/MIDDN CONN/1842" on the center of the lock, single letter inspection marks on various components, matching small assembly marks on the inside components of the lock including the brass flash pan indicating this is still in its original flintlock configuration, and crisp oval script "JCB" (Joseph C. Bragg) and "WAT" (William A. Thornton) cartouches stamped on the left stock flat. Includes period black leather ammunition pouch with star markings.

Excellent, retains its correct "National Armory Bright" polished iron surfaces with zero evidence of flash pitting on the barrel or lock, a few scattered occasional small patches of light pitting, 90% original case colors on the lock and upper tang with some scattered light surface freckling, strong amounts of original nitre blue finish remain on the frizzen spring and some of the screws, and sharp markings and clear-cut edges in the metal overall. The brass flash pan retains a pleasing original golden aged patina. Stock is also excellent with attractive original raised and feathered grains, rich oil finish, some scattered light handling marks and dents, very defined edges and exceptionally crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. Included ammunition pouch is fine with some light aging underneath a protective coat of wax, with one metal divider unattached on the inside. This exceptional example of a Robert Johnson Model 1836 flintlock pistol would be difficult to improve upon and would make a fine addition to any U.S. martial collection!