March 1-2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2018
Jacob Bear worked as a gunsmith in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, between Chestnut and East Orange Streets. He was born in 1796 and was still listed as a gunsmith in 1870 at age 74. This rifle, circa 1820, features an octagonal barrel signed "J. Bear" in script on the top flat, surrounded by decorative whimsical borders. Flat flintlock mechanism stamped "SHARPE" in center. Brass furniture includes a large four-piece patchbox with engraved shaped panels of checkering and scrolls, sideplate engraved en suite. Full-length maple stock with painted faux striping, familiar Lancaster form, punch-dot checkered wrist. Barrel retained by three brass keys. Silver oval escutcheons inlaid on wrist and above cheekpiece. Very good condition, overall. Probably shortened slightly during period of use. Barrel retains an even brown patina, lock has been professionally reconverted to flintlock configuration, shows some corrosion. Brass furniture has a mellow patina. Stock very good with some wear to faux striping and some scattered marks from use, one repaired crack stemming from front of lock to barrel. This is a very decorative Lancaster rifle in very good overall condition!
Caliber/Bore
.40 Smoothbore