October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
Peter Angstadt (1783-1815) worked in Rockland Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. For a similar example with a nearly identical patchbox, see rifle number 20 on page 56 in the book "Berks County Longrifles & Gunmakers 1750 - 1900" by Patrick Hornberger. Another rifle with an identical patchbox was sold September 26th, 2018 by Morphy Auctions as Lot 79 as part of the property of Walter O'Connor. That Angstadt rifle was used by John Wayne in the movies "Allegheny Uprising" and "The Kentuckian". Full octagonal barrel signed with partially visible signature of Peter Angstadt, as well as a folky engraved Indian head on the top flat near the breech. Both sights mounted on the top flat have double lines engraved both in front of and behind them. Flat lockplate with beveled edges and a faceted pan. The brass furniture includes a four piece patchbox engraved with folky scrolls and stars. The flat sideplate with beveled edges is engraved en suite. There is a silver half moon inlaid above the relief cheekpiece on the left side and a silver oval shaped wrist escutcheon inscribed with block letters "IM". There are ovoid shaped brass escutcheons around the barrel pins on both sides of the forend. The full length partially figured maple stock shows Lehigh County influence and terminates with an open-ended brass nosecap. The rifle is complete with its original wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel and lock retain a heavy brown patina. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration. Brass retains a mellow, light mustard patina. Stock retains much of its original finish with areas of handling wear. This rifle is in completely as found and untouched condition. The rifle was slightly shortened during the period of use, perhaps about 1-1/2". A very nice signed Allemeangel rifle. CORRECTION: This is a nice Kutztown rifle that was shortened approximately 1/2" at breech.
Caliber/Bore
.50 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Peter Angstadt