S. Miller Signed Pennsylvania Long Rifle with Incised Carved Stock This rifle is signed "S Miller" on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and breech and has a matching patch box design and Roman nose stock profile seen on other known S. Miller rifles. It was built either by Simon Miller or Samuel Miller of Pennsylvania. Similar rifles clearly crafted by one of the two men rather than both have been incorrectly identified over the years. It seems more likely that these near matching examples were all built by Simon, including this one, given the Kentucky Rifle Foundation notes, "His rifle design with the Roman-nose stock and a distinctive patch box design rarely varied." The barrel is also stamped "J WORL" on the bottom flat near the breech indicating the barrel maker and "JAS GOLCHER/WARRANTED" on the lock indicating the lock maker. There was a maker of rifles from the early 19th century named "J. Worly" as well as at least one H. Worl barrel/rifle maker from the same era. This example has the standard low profile blade and notch sights, apparently smooth bore (may have been rifled originally), a plain trigger, silver heart and oval inlays on the top of the wrist (also seen on other Miller rifles), distinctive Miller patch box and side plate, downturned silver crescent moon with engraved facial details on the cheekpiece, brass cheekpiece edge plate, Rococo style scroll carving on the left side of the butt, and lightly engraved toe plate and wear plate. Interestingly, there are no wedge shields. The plain stock flats and inclusion of Rococo style carving suggest this was manufactured late in the flintlock era towards the end of the "Golden Age." Manufacturer: Miller Model: Kentucky BBL: 41 7/8 inch octagon Stock: walnut Gauge: 42 Finish: bright/casehardened Grips: Serial Number: NSN Class: Antique Condition: Good as reconverted to flintlock. The barrel has even gray and brown patina and fairly minimal pitting. The lock has mixed, artificial, dark brown tones and some light pitting. The brass and silver have attractive aged patinas throughout. The revarnished stock is in very good condition and has clean edges and crisp carving. There are some minor chips, dings, and scratches throughout, including a group of chips around the tip of the barrel tang. The lock is mechanically fine but appears to have no functional half cock. The markings, carving, and engraving patterns are mostly crisp.

  • Condition: See Description

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by Rock Island Auction Company
December 3, 2016 9:00 AM CST
7819 42nd Street West
Rock Island, IL, US 61201

Rock Island Auction Company

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