November 5th & 6th 2016 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/5/2016
Octagonal smooth bore barrel signed "John Meals" in script on top flat. Unmarked flintlock mechanism; double set triggers. Brass furniture includes four piece pierced patchbox engraved on lid with stylized flower and finial engraved with a folk art flower; oval brass inlay with a serrated diamond on cheekpiece, shaped toeplate engraved with 'C' scrolls and star; sideplate engraved with checkered panels and scrolls. Full length brass wearplate on forend between front trigger guard finial and ramrod entry furl, and four punch dot engraved oval escutcheons on each side of forend. Full length figured maple stock with incised carved 'C' scrolls, daisy and a series of fluted lines behind the cheekpiece on left side. Good condition; barrel retains a heavy dark brown patina with some pitting around breech and lock retains a heavy brown pitted patina. Brass retains a mellowing patina, dark in some areas; patchbox lid partially bend around rivet. Stock is very good with some minor age cracks near muzzle and some scattered marks from use. Carving is excellent. This rifle was sold by Joe Kindig Jr. and was made around 1825. No two rifles made by Meals are alike, as he was very creative with his designs.