Australian Royal Mail Co. Pistol by Westley Richards

NSN, .753 Caliber (12-Bore), 9" barrel with a good, lightly pitted bore.  This is a very large and stoutly constructed pistol, based on the British Pattern 1842 Lancer Pistol, but with a slightly longer grip.  The top of the barrel has a partially legible maker name, "(WESTLEY RICH)ARDS LONDON," with the metal having an overall mottled gray patina that has darker plum-brown freckling towards the breech, heaviest on the bolster.  The captive ramrod has a matching patina, but with some hints of mild surface oxidation around the flared head.  The mottled freckling continues on the hammer and "AUSTRALIAN / ROYAL MAIL Co." marked lockplate.  The heavy, pin-fastened walnut stock has numerous small handling marks and minor blemishes scattered throughout the old varnish finish.  The action is fully functional, and the pistol is in very good-near fine condition overall.  Antique