circa early to mid 1800s, 44 in. octagonal heavy barrel, 1-1/4 in. thick, 1/2 in. bore, dovetail blade front sight, split rear sight, inlaid band around muzzle, inlaid brass plate to top of barrel inscribed "J. Palm, No. 4", engraved lock plate with stamped "K R...", tiger maple stock with various inlays, six star type inlays at forestock around barrel pins, two round silver insets at foregrip barrel pin, four brass drop form insets at foregrip and grip, large engraved brass plate under foregrip, insets to front and back of lock plate and side plate, star inlay under buttstock, engraved patch box with leaf flourishes, eagle inlay at cheek rest, other decorative inlays, brass trigger guard, forend cap, and ramrod guides, 59 in. overall, 15 lbs.
Note: The inscription is possibly that of gunmaker John Palm of Berks County, Pennsylvania, or another member of his family. The NRA Museum houses a later example ["J. Palm No. 192"] with an innovative feature, a swiveling barrel. Images of that firearm can be found at the following link:
https://www.nramuseum.org/the-museum/the-galleries/the-prospering-new-republic/case-28-romance-of-the-long-rifle/john-palm-swivel-barrel-flintlock-kentucky-long-rifle.aspx
Provenance: Private Collection, McLean, Virginia
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Private Collection, McLean, Virginia
metal components with patina, handling wear, abrasions, dents, and oxidation, oxidation in bore, abrasions to lock plate, various splits in grain to right side or forestock measuring, 2 in., 2-1/2 in., 3 in. and 9 in., 2 in. repair to forestock at front barrel pin, splits to grain in left side of forestock, measuring 9-1/2 in., and various 1-1/2 in. and smaller splits, chips, losses and abrasions to wood around lock plate, scratches, miniscule hairlines and wear to grip and buttstock, various other minor chips and abrasions to stock, losses to finish of stock, some engraving appears incomplete, cock will set and release with trigger but not crisp, the action is mushy Note - Brunk Auctions makes every effort to offer accurate and thorough information, but encourages prospective bidders to inspect items in person whenever possible. Condition statements are provided as a courtesy for general guidance and should not be considered complete or definitive. They do not represent a warranty or assumption of liability by Brunk Auctions. Certain condition issues may not be specifically noted in the report but may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which are considered part of the overall condition report. Please refer to our Terms of Sale for complete information and contact us for additional photos or information as needed.