November 15 & 16, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/15/2022
Extra fine raised carved Kentucky rifle signed "H. KOONS". Henry Koons worked originally in Double Pipe Creek, Maryland, working circa 1800 to 1825. Koons rifles are rare and this particular rifle belonged to Albert M. Sullivan at one time and is pictured on pg. 48 in "The Kentucky Rifle: A True American Heritage" published by the Kentucky Rifle Association in 1967. This 1 of 4 Koons rifles known to this cataloger. Rifle has 42 -1/2" slightly swamped octagon .41 caliber smoothbore barrel with rifle sights. Barrel is signed "H. KOONS" in brass plate on barrel. Rifle has rare brass percussion lock; rifle looks to always have been percussion and controlled with a single trigger. Fine raised carved 1 -7/8" wide butt curly maple stock with "C" scroll pattern behind cheek, raised shell pattern wrist carving, beavertail pattern behind lock, and backplate with raised fleur de lis pattern behind tailpipe with brass hardware. 2 coin silver inlays including a silver thumbpiece and engraved Hunter's Star on silver oval plate on cheek. Brass engraved 4 piece patchbox with 3 piercings, Koons typical "pinwheel" sideplates and horsehead finial with bone button release. Comes with hardwood ramrod and consignor research packet. Pictured in the red KRA. book on Page 48, "Kentucky Rifle Patchboxes: All New Volume II by Chandler and Whisker, Plate 232, and in "Maryland Longrifles" by Hartzler and Whisker, pg. 47 and on pg. 100 of "Gunsmiths of Maryland" Hartzler and Whisker. PROVENANCE: Ex. Albert Sullivan Collection. CONDITION: Metal has turned to a silvery brown patina with brass having a pleasing unpolished patina. Wood has excellent looking, possibly original, finish. Dark sharp rifling and soft mechanics. A super rare and conditioned Kentucky. DLM
Caliber/Bore
.41 Smoothbore