October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
It is well documented that these Pattern 1759 Marine Militia muskets were issued to Loyalist troops. This example is possibly the only one still in existence with these markings. According to "Insignia of Independence" by Don Troiani and James Kochan, pages 169-172. In May of 1779 the Queen's Rangers were designated as the 1st American Regiment, this was the beginning of the Loyalist units. It is interesting to note that this musket came out of an attic in Long Island, which was a highly concentrated Loyalist stronghold. Round, steel barrel with bayonet lug mounted on top near muzzle. The top is engraved "1A No 1B" for 1st American 1st Battalion. Customary Government view and proof marks are partially visible; and crown over "FG" at breech. Lockplate is marked "TOWER" behind cock, crown over "GR" between the cock and pan. The lock is a second lock replaced during the period of use. Standard Pattern 1759 Marine Militia furniture including buttplate tang with a screw which is also inscribed with a series of punched dots forming the date "1778". At the time of issue, just as was done with the Queen's Rangers, a wrist escutcheon was added. The wrist escutcheon has a worn inscription which appears to read "E / 50". As this is the Pattern 1759, there is a brass ramrod entry ferrule. Walnut stock of classic British form with a bulge at the ramrod entry ferrule and a carved beavertail with an added incised line which was done during the period. There is also a partially visible crown stamped behind the trigger guard tang and a large "I" carved into the stock on the right side. Complete with its original iron ramrod. CONDITION: Completely as found and untouched, truly in attic condition. Barrel retains a heavy brown patina with some scattered areas of pitting and some light wear to markings. Lock retains a matching surface, frizzen was re-sleeved during the period, and at the time the lock was replaced the sideplate was recessed slightly for fitting purposes. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration. Brass retains a very dark green, unpolished surface. Stock retains all of its original surface, showing scattered marks from use, age cracks, and a small in-period repair where the mainspring was broken out below the lockplate. There is some minor chipping around the back of the lock tang and one minor splinter on the left side of the forend towards the muzzle. A rare opportunity to own a regimentally marked and dated Loyalist musket in untouched condition.
Caliber/Bore
.80 Smoothbore
Model
Pattern 1759 Marine Militia Musket