This is an English made single shot pistol that generally follows the lines of a large Henry Deringer.  It has an overall length of 10 inches and a barrel length of 6 inches, is smooth bore and .50 caliber.  It dates to about the same period, maybe 1840 to 1850 and was manufactured by Van Wart & Son, most likely for export to the Southern United States.  Van Wart had strong commercial ties with the Southern states, prior to the Civil War.  During the war he was a major supplier of military goods.  Every time I see something like this, I think Wilmington, Charleston or Savannah.  The gun was very nicely made with platinum banded breech, engraved furniture, nice wood and sharp checkering.  This one could use a little TLC.  It is missing its ramrod, the barrel has been cleaned and there is a wood repair on the left side, opposite the lock.  Straightened up a bit, it would be a very handsome pistol and more than likely a pre-war Southern import. SOLD!!