November 17, 2020 Early Arms & Militaria: Age of Exploration, Empire & Revolution
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2020
According to "Gunsmiths of York County" by James B. Whisker, Jacob Leather (1755-1835) was a gunsmith who worked in Yorkborough from the time of the American Revolution through the War of 1812. His shop was on the north side of Market Street and he was one of the York contractors for 1,200 Model 1795 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania muskets. Leather worked with Conrad Welshans to deliver 512 of the weapons. He was also a participant in the contract to let the York gunsmiths supply Model 1808 muskets on government contract during the War of 1812. His work shows great similarities to that of Jacob and Conrad Welshans. The rifle features a 42" fully octagonal .60 caliber smoothbore barrel with a brass front sight and notched rear iron sight. The top flat is inscribed "J. Leather" towards the breech. The flat lockplate is unmarked and has beveled edges, as well as a faceted pan. The brass furniture includes an engraved 4-piece patchbox with a pierced finial. The sideplate is of York form and features engraved designs en suite. The rifle is stocked in plain maple and has a York County profile. The wrist has shaped checkered panels and the left side of the buttstock has large relief carved foliate sea scrolls as well as incised designs behind the cheekpiece. The rifle is complete with its original wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel retains a freckled surface with an applied brown finish. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and functions properly, retaining a dark patina. Lock is possibly a replacement. Brass furniture shows wear and scattered marks from use. Ramrod ferrules show heavy wear and some losses. Stock shows heavy wear and minor pieces of wood which has been replaced around the lock and along both sides of the forend. The last 17" of the forend have been professionally restored. DMG
Caliber/Bore
.60 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Jacob Leather
Model
Flintlock Kentucky Rifle