April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/12/2023
One of the finest and best condition Leonard Reedy attributed flintlock Kentucky rifles in existence. Gun is pictured as plate 50 of Edith G. Cooper's book "The Kentucky Rifle and Me." The rifle was in the Cooper collection for over 75 years until circa 2010. 57 - 1/2" overall length with a 42" long .45 caliber smoothbore octagonal barrel with German silver blade front sight and notch rear sight. Barrel has touch stamp on underneath, "ISB", which could indicate this rifle was made by Reedy when still under Bonewitz's influence. Standard original flint lock with original parts and 2-line plate often seen on Reedy guns and other Berks guns. Plain single trigger. Full length relief carved curly maple stock with Roman nose Berks county profile and 2" wide butt. Stock has brass line engraved hardware including classic 4-piece patchbox with floral Reedy/Fitchthorn/Bonewitz style finial, butt opening button, and 2 rivet latch. Stock has raised carved "C" scroll pattern and typical Reedy triangle under cheekpiece with floral relief pattern extending to the wrist. Twin raised beavertails behind lock and beveled Reedy/Bonewitz/Fitchthorn brass sideplate. Tang has raised Reedy pattern "Q" carving with coin silver thumpiece. Comes with original hardwood striped ramrod. PROVENANCE: T.J. Cooper Collection. CONDITION: Overall good with metal surface showing some light surface rust. Brass is untouched and has faded to a dark yellow patina. Wood has traces of original finish with dry worn patches from use and an age crack through some of carving. Dark bore with functioning mechanics. A super honest and conditioned 200 year old rifle from a well known collection and attributed maker.
Caliber/Bore
.45 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Leonard Reedy Attributed