A Rare 1842 Pattern Lancer Percussion Pistol to 17th Lancers. 15 ½” overall, 9” 11 bore smooth bored round browned barrel with double set of proof stamps, border engraved lockplate marked with a crown over VR & TOWER 1845, the trigger guard engraved ‘XVII Lc F 79’ for 17th Lancers F Troop pistol no.79, lanyard swivel in front of the trigger guard. Walnut full stock with swivel rammer.
Dated 1845.
In good darkly patinated condition minor splits to stock.
This pistol was specifically designed for the four Regiments of British Lancers, but only the 17th took part in the Charge of the Light Brigade at Balaklava in 1854, where they were the centre regiment in the front rank of the 147 17th Lancers that charged, only 38 answered the roll call after the battle. For their gallant actions that day, three Victoria Crosses were awarded to members of the Regiment. Although the 17th remained in the Crimea for the rest of the campaign they did not play a major role in any of the remaining battles, which were predominantly infantry affairs.