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Fullstock Percussion Kentucky Rifle Attributed to Nicholas Shennefelt

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:25.00 USD Estimated At:25.00 - 500,000.00 USD
Fullstock Percussion Kentucky Rifle Attributed to Nicholas Shennefelt
Unusual percussion Kentucky rifle attributed to Nicholas Shennefelt of Huntingdon County, PA. and later of Clarion County, PA., circa 1840. This rifle measures 56" overall with a 40" octagon rifled barrel in 44 caliber with no markings. This rifle has some parts which appear to be recycled from an earlier rifle of higher quality. The silver heart wrist inlays, the Hunter's Star barrel escutcheons, silver thumbpiece, brass football sideplate and double shield patchbox with Ram's Horn engraved lid resemble parts from a John Armstrong rifle. The lid of the patchbox shows evidence of fitting with engraving being cut off as does the sideplate. Although both makers used this style patchbox, architecture resembles more what Shennefelt did and is comparable to other rifles. Rifle has a "Josh Golcher" percussion lock with double set trigger control. Full curly maple stock with profile similar to Shennefelts with ten coin silver inlays, including an eagle similar to Shennefelt. CALIBER: 44. FFL STATUS: Antique.
CONDITION
Overall good with metal turning brown patina with some pitting. Wood has traces of original finish with section of wood replaced 12" from muzzle on forestock. Dark bore with hammer not holding. Rifle displays very nicely and has an old pin wrist repair.