December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2024
The 1756 Pattern is considered scarce with between 200,000 and 250,000 made between 1756-1790, with many fewer in later years. Galton locks are known to be dated 1762 and 1764. Locks were not dated after 1764 and the names of contractors were no longer engraved. All were then engraved "TOWER". The Pattern 1756 is the primary gun that armed British forces during the American Revolution. It exhibited a number of improvements, including the brass nose caps and a trumpeted top ferrule. It had the 1755 style lock plate with a much straighter profile than earlier patterns. The stock no longer has raised carving around the lock and side plate, and the bulge is smaller. This particular musket is very interesting as it is completely original. The barrel is marked with Tower proof and view marks at breech and "HB" for Harris Barker. The barrel tang has a small crown. The lock is marked "GALTON / 1762" at tail and engraved with large crown over "GR" in center, and a small crown over broad arrow British ordnance proof below pan. The inside of lock plate is marked "FG" for Farmer/Galton and Crown over "3" inspector proof. All brass furniture have crown or inspector marks. The entry ferrule is marked with a British-style script 21, which could be a regimental marking or rack number. The rammer channel has a VII. CONDITION: All as found and original, replaced top jaw with period replacement, post on cock has a period crack. Markings excellent throughout. In its original flintlock configuration and lock functions in both full and half cock. The iron parts all have a consistent dark brown patina and the brass is an uncleaned dark mustard color. Minor bend at muzzle face. The stock is complete with expected handing marks, a crack in right side of fore end and a small sliver absent along barrel channel and a small chip in front of lock tang. Period ramrod an American replacement. It would be difficult to find a better example with better markings of this important Revolutionary War longarm.
Caliber/Bore
.75 Smoothbore