This pistol is moderately antiqued and has a very whimsical, typical eastern Berks County (PA) appearance.  It could possibly be a later Angstadt family piece or potentially someone else in the region working in a similar style; dating is approximately of the 1810 - 1820 period.  It it quite clear that this piece was constructed in a quirky American style, but it obviously makes use of a French lock (import or recycled?) and - most likely - European brass barrel.

     The stock is a piece of plain maple that was artificially striped, although the striping is somewhat faded and worn in some areas.  It does not appear to have been stained but was colored with a vivid red-orange varnish.  The furnishings are all of thin brass and definitely made by the maker, and also present is a small coin silver escutcheon.  Some simple, folksy engraving is seen upon this escutcheon as well as some of the brass.

     The anglular or faceted shaping of the stock is attractive and feels good 'in hand,' and the pistol is actually fairly petite; it most likely was constructed as a defensive overcoat pistol, meant to be carried in a pocket or bag.  The barrel is 7 1/4" long and of between .60 and .61 bore, while the snappy little lock is only 3 3/4" in length.  In totality, the piece displays wear and age however it is still in great condition and represents a pistol which was cared-for as well as cleaned/conserved in the modern era.