(A) INCISE CARVED FLINTLOCK KENTUCKY RIFLE, SIGNED S.

For a nearly identical rifle, see rifle number 29 on page 65 of "Berks County Long Rifles & Gunmakers, 1750-1900" by Patrick Hornberger. This rifle features a 42 - 3/16" fully octagonal .49 caliber smoothbore barrel with a brass front sight and a notched rear sight, inscribed "S*Miller" on the top flat towards the breech. The center of the lockplate is stamped "KETLAND & CO." in the center. The standard Simon Miller furniture includes a four-piece patchbox with engraved scrolls on the lid. There is a small silver wrist escutcheon with vacant inscription and an inlaid silver crescent moon above the cheekpiece, which is decorated with rocker panel engraving. The stock is of highly figured maple and has familiar Berks County form. Behind the cheekpiece on the left side of the buttstock there are classic incised scrolls. Rifle is complete with its original wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Very good overall. Barrel retains a dark even brown patina, and signature is excellent. Lock is a good professional reconversion, and retains a brown surface with some scattered pitting. Brass furniture retains a mellowing patina. Stock is very good and retains a pleasing orange color, with some scattered marks from use. Carving is excellent. There are some minor losses from powder burns above the front lock tang and just behind the pan. A very attractive unrestored signed rifle. DMG Barrel Length: 42 - 3/16" Caliber/Bore: .49 Smoothbore FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: Simon Miller Model: Flintlock Kentucky Rifle Serial Number: NSN