GUN FALL 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2017
RARE AND INTERESTING PRESENTATION DECORATED AND ENGRAVED HARPERS FERRY MODEL 1816 FLINTLOCK MUSKET.HARPERS FERRY1816NSN69Cal. 69. This unique musket is beautifully decorated with 18 inset German silver stars varying from 1″ to 1-1/2″, a 4″ spread wing eagle sitting atop a globe, and 4" blank presentation plate. Lock is marked "HARPERS FERRY 1822" rear of cock and small American eagle with "US" forward of cock. The walnut stock has fine color and checkered wrist not seen on standard military guns. There are other known presentation muskets similarly decorated. Most identified examples were gifts or prizes after the flintlock era in 1840's or 50's. The maker of these guns appears consistent, but he utilized muskets of different contractors and even mixed parts. There is a very similar decorated musket displayed in the iconic Claude Fuller Collection at Chickamauga Battlefield Museum and R. L. Wilson shows several almost identical examples in a collage on pg 83 of Steel Canvas. This gun does have a finely engraved name in scroll decoration on top of bbl which is not easily discerned. The last name appears to be "Hamilton" and possibly Schuyler Hamilton who received a similar example as a gift from his friends at the US Military Academy, June 1845. Regardless of recipient, this is a true work of American military art. PROVENANCE: Collection of Robert Roughton. CONDITION: Very good overall. Appears orig and complete with typical Harpers Ferry assembly numbers on most metal parts. Bbl, lock and iron mounts show old cleaning with pitting and staining. Bbl is dark with other iron components showing great contrast along with German silver insets and decorations. Wood is sound and solid with crack repair in forestock, there several large dents, dings and scratches. Musket is mechanically sound and functional. 52328-46 JS (4,500-6,500)