December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/14/2022
Jacob Kuntz lived between 1780 and 1876. He began working as a gunsmith in Allentown, Pennsylvania (Lehigh County), and was taxed as a gunsmith in Whitehall Township in 1807. He later moved to Philadelphia where he became noted as one of the finest makers of flintlock rifles and pistols. While his style changed and evolved, he retained many of the salient features of Lehigh Valley rifles. This fine example features a 2-stage barrel with an applied shield-shaped brass front sight and a notched iron rear sight. The top flat is inscribed "Philad" for Philadelphia, where this example was made. The lockplate has a stepped tail and is inscribed "Kunz" in the center. The brass furniture includes a 2-piece Lehigh style patchbox with a finely engraved stylized fleur-de-lis finial. The shaped sideplate has beveled edges and is reminiscent of Lehigh sideplates, but terminating in a ball shape rather than an arrow. The Lehigh-style trigger guard has a lug in front of the bow. The ramrod entry ferrule has an engraved tang. The engraved toeplate has stiffleaf engraved borders and a rectangular horn patchbox release button. The partially figured maple stock shows a Lehigh influence. Relief carved and molded cheekpiece. A flute with a line on each side is carved above and below the patchbox lid. CONDITION: Barrel retains a grey patina with light pitting and some heavier corrosion at breech. Inscription excellent. Lock is a very good professional reconversion, retains a grey patina and functions well. Brass retains a pleasing mustard patina. Stock some scattered marks and a couple repaired age cracks on forend. A very nice signed Philadelphia rifle. PROVENANCE: Ex. Steve Hench Collection. DMG