October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
Committee of Safety muskets are extremely rare, especially those marked with identification to a particular colony. This musket is featured on page 52 of "Rhode Island Arms Makers & Gunsmiths 1643 to 1883" by William O. Achtermier. The caption states that all factors indicate that this specimen is a Providence Committee of Safety musket, manufactured in Providence during the period between 1775 and 1776 under the supervision of Benjamin Thurber. This example is numbered 51 and two other known numbers with very similar features include numbers 53 and 83. The musket features a tapered round, smoothbore barrel which is completely unmarked. There is a small brass half moon sight towards the muzzle and a bayonet lug mounted on the bottom. Near the front sight, the barrel is inscribed "51". The rounded lockplate features some scroll engraving in unbridled pan and an arrow finial on the frizzen spring. The inside of the lockplate is stamped "E HOMER". The brass furniture includes a four stage buttplate tang inscribed "PROVD / No 51". The full sideplate is in the New England style, while the trigger guard is similar to that of the British pattern 1759 Elliot light Dragoon pistol. There are four sheet brass ramrod ferrules, the top ferrule is elongated and slightly trumpeted. The sling swivels are also brass. Pinned, full length walnut stock with relief beaver tail is carved around tang and buttstock with New England form showing French influence. An incised line runs along the barrel on both sides and a brass nosecap is mounted towards the muzzle. A copy of "Rhode Island Arms & Gunsmiths" is included, as well as a three-ring binder of provenance, similar examples, and copies of information on Rhode Island Committee of Safety makers. CONDITION: Very good. Barrel retains a heavy, dark brown patina with some losses at muzzle. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration. Brass retains a dark, unpolished patina. Some minor denting and losses to the two rearmost ferrules. Stock shows some scattered marks from use, minor age cracks, and a couple small slivers professionally replaced around barrel tang and about a 4" sliver on right side front of forend. PROVENANCE: Charles D. Cook collection; Allen F. Thompson, Jr. collection; Al Para collection, photographed on page 52 of "Rhode Island Arms Makers & Gunsmiths 1643 to 1883" by William O. Achtermier.
Caliber/Bore
.69 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Benjamin Thurber, Attributed