May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
John Meals lived between 1789 and 1852. He is listed in 1820 U.S. census as rifle maker in Menallen in Adams County, Pennsylvania. The details describe his business as having 6 workers. He is listed again just before his death in the 1850 census as a gunsmith. The rifles octagon barrel is signed "John Meals" in script on the top flat. The lock is stamped "I. / HOLLAND" in the center and has been converted to percussion using the original flintlock cock with a percussion hammer welded in the jaws. The rifle has double set triggers. The brass furniture includes a large and profusely inlaid four-piece patchbox five piercings. The ramrod entry ferrule expands into an integral engraved saddle wear plate extending all the way around the trigger guard bow in the front. The sideplate is also engraved with scrolls and borders. Engraved silver star inlaid above cheekpiece and a silver oval wrist escutcheon with vacant inscription. Tiger maple stock with distinct relief carved c-scrolls on left side of buttstock and a molded half circle with gadrooning below cheekpiece. CONDITION: As found and untouched throughout. Barrel retains a dark brown patina, signature excellent. Lock retains a dark patina. Brass retains a very dark mustard patina. Stock shows scattered cracks, chips, marks from use and signs of age. Carving is crisp. Complete with its original ramrod.