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DECORATED FRENCH 18TH CENTURY MUSKET

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Militaria Start Price:750.00 USD Estimated At:1,500.00 - 2,000.00 USD
DECORATED FRENCH 18TH CENTURY MUSKET
Ornately decorated French-style 18th century military flintlock musket, .69 caliber, 55" long, possibly an 1808 pattern. The musket, still operational, bears the standard brass trim with the left side plate bearing two indistinguishable hallmarks. Original brass buttplate is also present, as is the iron ramrod. The barrel bears no marks. The wood stock has been adorned with multiple brass decorations and tacks, including a pattern of ornate circles with the seal of the British Crown at center, a second larger crown, two small "theatrical" faces, and scattered round-head brass tacks, all appearing on the right side of the firearm. The origin of this weapon is a complete mystery - it may have been a War of 1812 Canadian battlefield pick-up, or perhaps the decorations were added by an Indian who came into possession of the gun. An intruguing piece, fine for display.