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The wrist escutcheon is gold. The remaining mounts are silver and include a forend cap, wedge escutcheons, engraved trigger guard with pineapple finial and scene with a dog and deer on the bow and burst design towards the rear, buttplate with a deer scene and floral blooms around the screws, and a very elaborate four-piece patchbox which features the Grand Union flag (1776, first U.S. national flag), a club, spear, scimitar, drum, and a 19-star U.S.
flag (c. 1816-1817 as seen on the USS Constitution) on the finial; a cleverly concealed release button at the top of the hinge, pierced side plates with scroll and armorial figure designs, and hunting trophies on the lid. The figured walnut half-stock features fine checkering on the forend and wrist, two wedges, and an oval shadowline cheekpiece. CONDITION: Extraordinarily fine. The varnished barrel retains 85% of the original brown finish along with distinct Damascus twist patterns, bright gold inlays, and minor wear from age and storage. The lock and standing breech
still exhibit original case colors. The mounts have attractive aged patina. The engraving and markings remain crisp throughout. The stock is very fine and has crisp checkering, attractive figure, smooth oiled finish, light scratches and dings, and general minimal overall wear. The lock is mechanically fine. This is a beautiful rifle by one of the most well-respected gunmakers operating in the coastal cities in the U.S. in the early 19th century.
Provenance: The Colonel Richard (Dick) Cooper Collection; The Norman R. Blank Collection.
Estimate: 45,000 - 65,000
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