September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/6/2023
Highly decorated Kentucky-style half-stock rifle made by John H. Rector circa 1840 in Syracuse, New York. Rifle has a silver plate inlay below the cheekpiece marked Benjamin French in script. Benjamin French was a well-known politician from New England, famous for reportedly restraining John Wilkes Booth at the Capital Rotunda as he tried to push through the crowd at Lincoln's inauguration. He was also present at the Gettysburg Address, oversaw Lincoln's funeral, and gave the address at the dedication of the Lincoln Statue at Washington's City Hall. Gun has 33 - 1/2" octagonal .44 caliber rifled barrel with silver blade front sight, notch rear sight, and barrel stamped "J. H. RECTOR/SYRACUSE" in a pyramid over some unknown numerals. Gun has C. Baker marked percussion lock with single trigger control (position for set trigger, but has been removed). Curly maple half stock with brass decorated buttplate and Sterling silver trigger guard, tailpipe, toeplate, nose cap, comb piece, and patchbox. Patchbox is 4-piece and tastefully engraved with column-style side finials, Keystone Arch finial with floral scalloped top with a hidden release. Comb piece and toe plate are also in the form of columns. Stock is decorated with 11 total inlays, including 10 coin silver and brass shield thumbpiece (possibly replaced) and oval engraved with Hunter's Star cheek inlay and below cheek with vanity plate with French's name. Comes with hardwood ramrod and consignor research on French. CONDITION: Metal has turned a plum patina with areas of light pitting. Hardware has tarnished to an aged patina. Wood has areas of burnout around lock with some missing pieces. Dark pitted bore with visible rifling with good mechanics. A very unique and historical piece.
Caliber/Bore
.44 Percussion