March 1-2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2018
Jacob Fordney was the son of well-known longrifle maker Melchior Fordney, and also worked as a gunsmith in Lancaster, Pennsylvania between 1831 and at least 1860. Many of his guns were made using styles and parts obtained from his father. This rifle features an octagonal barrel with rocker panel engraved designs behind front sight and on both sides of rear sight, top flat stamped "J. Fordney/LANCASTER, PA". Flat stamp-engraved lockplate stamped "A & W ASTON" in center. Brass furniture including four-piece engraved patchbox, full flat Lancaster sideplate, and engraved toeplate with convex patchbox release button. Small hexagonal silver wrist escutcheon devoid of any engraving. Full-length figured maple stock of typical Lancaster County, Pennsylvania form featuring a diamond-section checkered wrist, wooden ramrod, brass barrel keys. Very good condition, overall. Barrel retains much of original brown finish with some scattered marks and light freckling at breech and muzzle. Lock is a professional reconversion and retains a light brown finish. Brass retains a mellow and even patina. Stock very good with a few minor scattered marks and a chip on right side of barrel tang. This is an excellent Lancaster rifle by the well-known Fordney family of gunsmiths and remains in wonderful condition!
Caliber/Bore
.45 Smoothbore