Make: Pitcairn Pistol (Authorized by Whitney Armory Museum and U.S. Historical Society)
Model: 10 Murdock
Serial Number: 378
Year of Manufacture: Early 1980s, ATF Antique
Caliber: .58 Caliber
Action Type: Single-Shot Flintlock
Barrel Length: 7.5 Inches with Flared Muzzle
Markings: Includes engraved embellishments, commemorative markings, and the serial number. Commemorative markings include the oval-shaped silver plaque on the left grip frame marked “Lexington April 19, 1775” and the oval-shaped silver plaque on the right side of the grip frame bearing the “Pitcairn Seal” with snake and three swords.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol features a ram’s horn butt, a hallmark of Scottish Murdock pistols. The steel and silver construction shows intricate engraving and fine craftsmanship. The stock and fittings are in Like New condition, with no signs of wear or handling.
Type of Finish: All Steel and Silver
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The smooth bore is bright. There is very faint intermittent surface corrosion. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains 99% of its original finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete. The markings are crisp. There is little to no handling or operational wear. There is very light intermittent rust freckling, generally held in some of the engraving. Overall, this pistol rates in Excellent condition, showcasing flawless metalwork, crisp engraving, and a polished finish.
Mechanics: The action functions as designed. The flintlock mechanism is smooth and precise. We did not fire this pistol. As with all firearms, a thorough inspection may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Includes a wooden display case with a plaque that reads, “The Pitcairn Pistol authorized by Whitney Armory Museum and Historical Society.” The case is in Excellent condition, featuring fitted compartments for the pistol and protective velvet lining. Please note, there is no key for the lock.
Our Assessment: The Pitcairn Pistol Model 10 Murdock is a striking limited-edition commemorative flintlock, authorized by the Whitney Armory Museum and the U.S. Historical Society, and produced in a run of only 900 examples. Each pistol was reportedly built by hand over a period of approximately three months, and the result is immediately apparent in the crisp engraving, polished steel and silver construction, and refined period-inspired presentation. The original molds and tooling were intentionally destroyed after the production run.
This pistol pays tribute to the famous sidearm associated with Major John Pitcairn, the British officer historically linked to the opening moments at Lexington on April 19, 1775, where the “shot heard ’round the world” helped ignite the American Revolution. Whether appreciated as Revolutionary War memorabilia, a fine commemorative arm, or a display-grade flintlock, this piece carries tremendous historical atmosphere.
The design is especially handsome, with its .58 caliber bore, 7.5-inch flared muzzle barrel, full steel-and-silver construction, and elaborate engraving throughout. The ram’s horn butt is a defining feature of Scottish Murdock-style pistols and gives this example its distinctive old-world profile. The silver plaques, including the “Lexington April 19, 1775” marking and the Pitcairn seal with snake and three swords, further elevate the pistol from a simple reproduction to a purpose-built historical tribute.
Condition is a major strength here. The pistol remains in Excellent condition, retaining about 99% of its original finish with crisp markings, sharp embellishments, and no notable handling or operational wear. It is housed in its fitted wooden display case with velvet lining and commemorative plaque, making it ready for immediate display. Please note that no key is included for the case lock.
For the collector of Revolutionary War material, early American historical arms, high-quality commemoratives, or finely made flintlock reproductions, this Pitcairn Pistol offers an impressive combination of rarity, presentation, craftsmanship, and historical significance. With only 900 produced, and this example remaining exceptionally well-preserved, it would make a standout centerpiece in any advanced historical firearms collection.
