September 20th 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/19/2015
35" barrel in .46 bore-percussion. This Pennsylvania full stock percussion rifle is signed “John or Jacob Shell” on right barrel flat. The work can be contributed either to John Shell or Jacob Shell who were both sons of gun maker Martin Shell of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. Martin Shell produced rifles and muskets for the American Revolution forces and the Committee of Safety, and he passed this talent onto both sons, as evidenced by this fine rifle. This rifle features a full heavy octagon barrel with a sporting leaf rear sight and a dovetail brass front sight. It is a beautifully finished striped stock with very large dimensions, especially at wrist. Two brass thimbles retain the rod, the barrel is double wedged and has a brass forend tip. The lock is not marked and has simple engraving. Has a heavy extended toe brass buttplate, toeplate, trigger guard, and patchbox. Features double set triggers. The wood is in beautiful condition with no cracks and is highly finished. Barrel is a smooth dark brown patina. About the only issues on this rifle is some chipping on the stock forward of the hammer and a battered top tang screw. A fine early full stock percussion Pennsylvania signed rifle.