Page 206 - 4094-BOOK3

LOT 3309
Extremely Rare Engraved, Gold Inlaid, and Silver Mounted
Forsyth & Co. First Model Sliding Lock Percussion Shotgun
with Hallmarks for 1822 - Serial no. 2899, 20 gauge, 38 5/8
inch part octagon bbl., brown/gold/casehardened/silver finish,
walnut stock. Reverend Alexander Forsyth was instrumental in the development of use of fulminate of
mercury as a replacement for black powder as an ignition source and is generally considered to be the inventor of the percussion ignition
system. This incredible early percussion gun features Forsyth’s distinctive first model sliding primer mechanism. The smoothbore Damascus
barrel has a gold bead front sight with flush inlaid gold “spider” base, girdled transition, and extensive gold inlaid foliate and martial
trophy designs on the breech section, including an escutcheon signed “FORSYTH/& CO” on top. The underside of the barrel is marked with
Birmingham proof marks and “Damascus”, and “2899” (9s look like upside down 5s) is marked on the breech plug hook. The standing breech
has a grooved rear sight with a gold crescent moon and three stars along with additional gilt foliate and star patterns. The lock is decorated
en suite and has gold foliate and martial trophy designs and “FORSYTH/& CO” signed on the drum at the center. The mounts are silver with
cast foliate and classical martial patterns. “SC & Co” silversmith’s marks and Birmingham hallmarks including the date code “y” for 1822 are
struck on each of the primary mounts. The figured walnut half-stock has a checkered wrist and a 13 5/8 inch length of pull.
CONDITION: Fine with much of the old refinished brown remaining on the barrel along with distinct twist patterns, bright gold inlays,
distinct markings and engraving, mottled gray patina on the lock, mild pitting, a small crack at the vent, aged patina on the silver, and
general mild wear. The stock is also fine and has attractive figure, crisp checkering, and minor scratches and dings. Mechanically fine.
Estimate: 18,000 - 27,500
204