April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2019
This fine Lehigh County, Pennsylvania rifle is signed by William Henry Jr. (1757-1821). He apprenticed with Andreas Albrecht at Christian Springs, Pennsylvania before he settled and set up shop in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. He was active there between 1790 and 1820. William Henry Jr. also built contract muskets for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and civilian long rifles. This example features a full-length octagonal barrel, with sights mounted on top flat, inscribed on top "W HENRY" in block lettering. The flat lockplate has an engraved, single line border and is unmarked. The brass furniture includes an early style four piece patchbox, engraved with a floral finial, in the style of early Moravian rifles. The brass sideplate with beveled edges also shows Moravian influence, with its tail coming to a rounded point. Above the cheek piece is inlaid a pierced silver Moravian star engraved with shading and borders. The faceted trigger guard is classically Lehigh county, with a lug forward the bow. The full length, partially figured maple stock shows generous traces of the reddish Lehigh Valley finish, and the buttstock is in the familiar classic Lehigh form. There is some faux-striping as well. Complete with wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel has been cleaned and now retains a light grey patina, with some darker spots and some corrosion at breech. Signature is still quite clear. The lock is in its original flicklock configuration, and retains a dark, heavy brown patina. The brass retains an unpolished, mustard patina, with some components being darker. The stock has a small area around the lock which has been replaced, as well as a small area around the ramrod ferrule on the left side. The stock shows some wear and scattered marks from use. A very nice rifle with clear Moravian influence.
Caliber/Bore
.50 Smoothbore
Model
Fullstock Kentucky Rifle