June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
Octagonal rifled barrel signed "S * B" in script on top flat for Samuel Baum. According to page 28 of "Pennsylvania Gunmakers" by Whisker and Chandler, Samuel Baum worked in Juniata and Susquehanna Valleys in Pennsylvania sometime after 1821. This fine rifle features 29 silver inlays, many engraved. Inlays include, stars, crescent moons, tear drops, ovals, and stylized hearts. Four stars along each side of forend, cheekpiece with silver inlaid plate and large star on left side of buttstock. Four-piece brass patchbox with ten shaped piercing and finely engraved with borders and scrolls on lid, typical of Upper Susquehanna rifles. Pierced and shaped two-piece sideplate, brass wear plate on bottom of forearm, and toeplate with five piercings, and shaped comb wear plate. Original percussion lock with flat engraved lockplate marked "LONDON/WARRANTED". Full-length figured maple stock of familiar Upper Susquehanna form, incise-carved scrolls and feathering on left side of buttstock. Very good condition, overall. Barrel retains an even brown patina and signature is very clear, some corrosion around bolster. Lockplate retains a grey patina with some areas of freckling. All silver inlays and brass furniture retain a mellow patina, all appear original. Stock has been refinished and has several small slivers along forend and around lock and sideplate that have been professionally replaced, as well as small piece at toe. These repairs are very well blended. Beautiful and unusually ornate Upper Susquehanna rifle!