November 15 & 16, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/15/2022
One of the many foreign arms pressed into service during the Revolution, the French 1766 musket saw heavy service. This example is in standard form with a tapered 44 - 3/4" .69 caliber barrel with bayonet lug mounted on the underside and a stamped "V" that is possibly part of a worn "M", denoting Maryland ownership, at the breech. Lock has a flat plate with beveled edges and is marked in the center in script "Maubeuge / Manuf. Rle." with an additional crown over "B" stamp. Full length hardwood stock bears an "SMP" brand for State of Maryland Property behind the sideplate, in addition to several "G.A.D." inspector stamps throughout. Standard iron mounts include 3 spring retained bands, long pointed trigger guard, and butt plate. The name "DAVID MANTZ" is neatly carved into the right side of the butt, likely during the War of 1812. Musket is complete with an "M" stamped triangular socket bayonet and an original iron ram rod. CONDITION: Iron components exhibit an attractive, even dark brown patina. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration. Touch hole was rebutted in the period. The stock shows a pleasing surface with handling wear and scattered marks from use, some chips in from of lockplate. Pin on end of middle barrel band spring is broken off, so band now slides. Bayonet shows pitting overall and opening to socket slightly bent and ring at opening is missing at slot. A very nice Maryland marked musket with an identification. BAS
Caliber/Bore
.69 Smoothbore