Description
Rare Russian–Belgian 3-Band Cossack-Style Percussion Pistol — Museum Tagged Example
Offered is a rare Russian–Belgian 3-band Cossack-style percussion pistol, an evocative mid-19th century sidearm reflecting cross-regional manufacture and Cossack cavalry preference for short, rugged pistols. The piece presents a correct percussion pistol with original furniture and historic proofing consistent with Belgian and English export practices.
The barrel is crisply rifled and bright, the lands and grooves showing sharp, reflective rifling that indicates careful preservation and limited firing since manufacture. The pistol’s three-band barrel retention and overall form are typical of cavalry pistols intended for hard use.
Marked evidence and provenance: Proof marks include a crown-over-V (associated with London view/inspection marks) and a crown-over-X, likely a Liège / Belgian proof mark — the latter suggesting continental manufacture and supporting the attribution to Belgian makers (possibly Tanner & Sons or contemporaneous firms). One additional proof on the metal is present but illegible. These assorted stamps document export inspection and acceptance across jurisdictions. The grip near the pommel bears a museum accession tag “45” securely affixed, confirming prior cataloging and institutional custody.
Notable functional and decorative details include a checkered spur on the hammer and a ball-form trigger, both correct to the period style and showing tool marks and aging consistent with original manufacture. Wood grips retain period finish and fit, with service age wear but no evidence of modern repair. Metal surfaces show honest patina and stable preservation.
The lockwork is functional, stopping at both full and half cock, trigger releases the hammer at full cock.
This pistol is an excellent museum or advanced-collector example—rare for its documented proofs, crisp bore, and clear provenance tag. It is presented as a historical, non-operational collectible (buyers should verify local laws regarding antique firearms).
Keywords: Cossack pistol, 3-band percussion pistol, Belgian percussion pistol, Tanner & Sons, crown-over-V proof, crown-over-X Liège proof, museum-tagged firearm, Russian cavalry pistol.
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