December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/12/2024
This Northampton County restocked rifle has the earliest known John Moll patchbox. The arrowhead sideplate, buttplate, trigger guard, engraved crescent moon inlay, and barrel are all from the original early rifle and have classic early Lehigh features. The octagon barrel is swamped at the muzzle. Percussion stamp-engraved lockplate. Early two-piece patchbox with stylized "S" on lid and classic Moll stylized fleur-de-lis finial with engraved checkered triangle, a signature feature of Moll patchboxes. Early Lehigh trigger guard and silver-inlaid moon with engraved face. Tiger maple stock of Lehigh form. CONDITION: Barrel retains a heavy brown patina, some pitting at breech around drum. Lock shows some pitting, does not hold on cock. Brass retains a pleasing mustard patina. Stock shows scattered marks from use and some minor chipping. An important study gun for collectors and enthusiasts of Northampton County rifles.
Caliber/Bore
.65 Smoothbore