Signed N Beyer, Nicholas Beyer, Lebanon, PA ca 1820

Nicholas Beyer was one of the most prolific, creative, and artistic gunsmiths in Pennsylvania. This example was made by him in the 1820's retaining the full compliment of his artistic ability. There is relief carving surrounding the thumb plate, and on both sides of the wrist. His carving design behind the cheek piece is one he often used. The curly maple is of nice flame grain quality with original surfaces. The barrel has been stretched (about 3.5" from the breech) to its original length of 42 inches; the calibre is about .44. Slightly more than a foot of forestock has been professionally restored; the ramrod pipe nearest the fore end cap is original. The lock reconversion is quite acceptable and small wood replacements in the usual burned out areas are nearly invisible.

Beyer's work is very collectable especially his bird finial patchboxes. This example is more decorative than most of his later work and retains a nice surface. Restoration holds the price to a reasonable level even though it is professionally done. This example is new to the market having been in a private collection for decades.

Available at $12,500.00