Antique pistol crafted by the Prince of Wales' gunmaker to go off with a bang

Tomorrow, April 20, Universal Live Auctions is offering over 200 various different lots of militaria and war memorabilia, including some genuine antiques and other exciting collectibles.

The primary thrust of the auction is the militaria of WWII - German, (Nazi), U.S. and British. But some of the most interesting material dates back earlier than that:

A US Medical Officer's Staff Sword by J. A. Merrill & Co (Portland, Maine) probably dates from the Indian Wars period. The impressive hilt is solid brass with full gilt.

The blade's obverse side is etched with a panoply of arms with a spread wing eagle in a sun burst. The reverse is marked 'U S Medical Staff'. In mint condition, it is size 36 and presents and carries an overall weight of around 2 lbs.

Perhaps the most exciting piece however is a rare and fine original carbine calibre full-stock officer's flintlock smoothbore pistol with octagon barrel. This should make an excellent investment.

Fit for a Prince - the original carbine calibre officers pistol

The maker, J Probin, is renowned as being the gunmaker for the Prince of Wales and his work is extraordinary. This walnut stocked smooth bore pistol is clearly marked on the lock, with sliding hammer safety and the lock-plate is original, not reconverted, yet mechanically as new.

The walnut stock is fine, with perfect, unworn deep hand-checkering. Having a duel purpose, as an officer's pistol and dueler, it has both a back and a front blade site as well as a set trigger.

This fine gun has deep London proof marks and is clearly marked ~J Probin Maker to His R H the Prince of Wales~. The trigger guard sports a pineapple finials.

This beautifully crafted weapon is expected to achieve $7,500 - $9,500 whilst the sword is listed at $6,525-$13,050 in the sale which takes primarily online (the auctioneer is based in Northbrook, Illinois).