September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/6/2023
For a similar German example, please see G. C. Neumann's: "Battle Weapons of the American Revolution", pg. 226. This was probably purchased by a British officer, as they were responsible for purchasing their own arms rather than being issued arms. This is a nearly identical copy of a known military pattern German Jaeger rifle of Suhl production. The rifle features an octagon barrel with deep multi-groove rifling, a swamped muzzle, rear leaf sight, and brass front sight. The right side is fitted with a bar-type bayonet lug for a sword or saber bayonet. The flat lock has beveled edges and a molding at the tail, center engraved "EGG". The brass furniture is directly copied from the above-mentioned Jaeger. There are iron sling swivels and ramrod. Walnut stock of German Jaeger form with sliding wooden patchbox and brass nosecap. Bayonet appears to be later, perhaps Civil War period and Southern-made for use in the Civil War. The long steel clip-point blade features a false edge and is unmarked. Brass guard and bird's-head form handle with applied silver shield on right side and slot for mounting on other side. Complete with its original pig-skin leather scabbard. This rifle was quite possibly left or captured during the War of 1812 and went on to be used in the Civil War and fitted with this well-fitting bayonet. CONDITION: Barrel has a later coat of browning. Lock appears to be in its original flintlock configuration. Mechanism is strong. Brass retains a pleasing patina. Stock shows some minor marks from use, area around patchbox thumb piece has been replaced, forend shows repaired cracks toward muzzle. Bayonet very good with a mellow patina to handle and some light pitting on blade, scabbard very good. Spring and spring screw are replacements.