^Lot 4052 GOOD BRITISH MODEL 1777 SHORT LAND PATTERN BROWN

BESS FLINTLOCK MUSKET. Cal. 75. S# NSN. The 39-1/4" barrel has British military proofs at rear. 1777 pattern lock with two screws behind serpentine cock features rounded pan, bridled friction frizzen and feather spring with dog nose finial. A crowned "GR" and crown proof are in front of cock; "TOWER" is on tail. European walnut early style stock extends to within 4-1/2" of muzzle with brass cap and features handrail comb, beavertail around barrel tang and palm swell at thimble. Side panel is stamped "IR". Other British proofs are behind trigger guard tang. Another proof on right rear of comb appears to be dated "1800". Brass furniture consists of buttplate with 3" tang punch stamped "C*D*C" (?), relief cast sideplate and trigger guard with simple husk finial. Steel ramrod mounts through flared top pipe, "Pratt" pipe and matching thimble. Sling loops are attached through stock at front and front of trigger guard bow at rear. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: musket is accompanied with correct style triangular bayonet with 16" blade engraved with rack # "5" on socket. CONDITION: very good to fine. Barrel and lock are a pleasing relatively smooth brown patina. Stock retains most of its original finish with good hand wear at grip and palm swell. Bore is good; fairly shiny with pitting toward muzzle. Lock is good; feather spring weak. Bayonet fits well and shows considerable cleaning to silver gray over dark pitting. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Nicholas Apergis. (01-27569/MGM). ANTIQUE. $1,500-2,500.