May 12-14, 2026 Firearms & Militaria
Lot #2094:
(A) SCARCE BRITISH EMERGENCY SHORT LAND PATTERN 1779-S BROWN BESS FLINTLOCK MUSKET.
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2026
This early production example is considered rare according to "The Brown Bess" by Erik Goldstein and Stewart Mowbray. See pages 132-136 for another example and detailed information about this pattern. The total production for this early type was only 5,103. These are widely believed to have all been used in America during the Revolutionary War and there are known examples that were purportedly surrendered at Yorktown. A pattern 1779-S musket is on display at The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, PA. The tag states that it was carried by a soldier in the 23rd Royal Welsh Fusiliers Regiment and was likely among the arms surrendered at Yorktown on October 19, 1781. This example is of standard configuration, only differing from the Pattern 1769 Short Land muskets by featuring an S-shaped convex sideplate. The tapered round barrel is marked with British Tower proofs and "MB" for maker Matthias Barker. The convex lockplate is marked "TOWER" at the tail and engraved with a large crown over "GR" in the center. Below the pan is a stamped crown over broad arrow denoting British government ownership. Walnut stock carved with an "N" on right side of wrist. Storekeeper's stamp on right side of buttstock and stamped inspector initials behind sideplate. CONDITION: Barrel retains a brown patina. Lock retains a matching brown patina, is in its original flintlock configuration and has excellent markings. Brass retains a pleasing mustard patina. Stock shows scattered marks from use and minor chipping around lockplate. One small sliver absent on right side towards muzzle. A very nice example of a rare and historic pattern.
Caliber/Bore
.79 Smoothbore