January 16, 2020 The Susquehanna Collection
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/16/2020
Joseph Franck is listed as a Lancaster maker in Pennsylvania around 1775 according to "American Gunsmiths" by Frank M. Sellers. This entry references Dillin as the source. This rifle has a two stage smoothbore barrel with an applied teardrop shaped brass front sight and an oversized iron rear sight. Barrel is inscribed "Joseph Franck" on the top flat near the breech. The flat lock has a deep flute towards the tail and beveled edges. The brass furniture includes a four piece engraved patchbox and an unengraved sideplate with beveled edges. There is a plain, oval shaped wrist escutcheon. The full length, partially figured maple stock shows relief scrolls around the barrel tang and incised scrollwork on both sides of the forend above the ramrod entry ferrule. There is also a raised molding surrounding the ramrod channel and incised scroll designs on both sides of the wrist with relief decoration around the comb. There are finely executed relief foliate scrolls behind the cheekpiece on the left side showing Womelsdorf influence. This early Golden Age rifle has no toeplate. CONDITION: Barrel retains a brown patina with some edge wear and denting to edges. There is some corrosion at the breech. Signature is light but visible. Rear sight is probably a replacement. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and is probably a second lock as it appears barrel was reconverted. Cock screw is a replacement. Lock retains a heavy brown patina and functions properly. Lock retaining screws are replacements. Trigger is missing a small section at the tip. Brass is polished and shows scattered marks from use and some wear. Stock shows some chipping around barrel tang and a very small sliver replaced beneath the lockplate. Otherwise, very good with crisp carving and no other wood restoration. Stock retains a pleasing, warm-colored surface. A very attractive, relief carved, and signed Golden Age rifle.
Caliber/Bore
.53 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Joseph Franck
Model
Flintlock Kentucky Rifle