^Lot 1 Antique English Flintlock Blunderbuss

Antique English Flintlock Blunderbuss, NVSN, approx. .80 cal., 21'' 3-stage round-to-octagonal iron barrel is struck with a deep ''teardrop''-like mark at breech and bells to 1-7/8'' at muzzle, 6-7/8''-long iron lockplate is pointed at rear and marked with a large ''(crown)/GR'' ahead of cock, and ''Tower'' in a vertical curve behind. Large serpentine brass sideplate, brass triggerguard, buttplate and two fancy ramrod thimbles. Fullstock of European walnut has a carved apron behind barrel tang and a carved comb, is marked with an underscored ''WO'' behind sideplate, ''(broad arrow)/BO'' on left side of butt, and ''(crown)/(broad arrow)/1806''(?) on right. Condition is good for this rare type, having a dark mottled gunmetal color to the lock and barrel and age-toned brass. Lock appears to be in original flintlock configuration; touchhole was possibly rebushed; barrel tang and triggerguard are ill-fitted replacements; barrel is loose in stock at muzzle; hardwood ramrod is missing. Stock shows age and the expected wear and scars of likely maritime use; ahead of rear ramrod ferrule is a large right-side repair and a large wood replacement on the left. Action functions; bore is rusty. Est.: $750-$1,500. (Antique)