Description
An antique long rifle believed to be a made by J. H. Johnston's Great Western Gunworks c.1860s-1870s in fair condition overall. The butt plate is made of brass and exhibits the iconic "C" shaped round cup design consistent with
American half-stock percussion rifles of this manufacturer. There are no apparent names on the rifle, however, there are two prominent proof markings near the end of the barrel at the hammer. Although the hammer appears to function properly, cocking and releasing as designed, it appears to suffer from a weak spring that prevents the hammer from mechanically striking forward as designed. Light embossments can be seen faintly on the side plate resembling what appears to be the lower half of a man rear of the hammer and very faintly, a design right under the nipple area. There is a small portion of the wood stock missing at the top of the side plate forward of the hammer. See pictures. The barrel exhibits scattered pitting and wear consistent with the items age. The ram rod appears to function properly and fit tightly but does not appear to be original to the firearm. Fixed forward and rear sights are present. Butt plate fits firmly to the stock. The trigger guard also fits firmly but may not be original to the item as similar examples exhibit larger, brass trigger guards and this example is smaller and made of iron. The stock appears to be in good to very good condition overall. The bore would benefit from a cleaning.
The consigner states this piece was found on Forbes Trail, near Camp Sequanota, in the late
1960’s by Walt Rutkowski. This trail was a military road, cut through the wilderness in 1758 by Brigadier General John Forbes during the French and Indian War. Bidders are welcome to preview items in person during our normal operating hours Tuesday through Saturday 11am-6pm. Estimated shipping parcel size (LxWxH) 60 inches x 8 inches x 8 inches. Please note, shipping estimates are provided for LiveShipping calculations only and may vary based on weight and location. The auction house will combine multiple lots to reduce shipping cost. Please inform the auction house prior to paying your invoice for special shipping requests. Our primary method of shipping is via UPS Ground.
- Model: J.H. Johnston
- Year - Range: 1860-1880s
- Low Estimate: 700
- Condition: Good
- High Estimate: 1200
- Caliber: Unknown
Buyer's Premium
18.99%
Antique Percussion Cap Long Rifle by J. H. Johnston's Great Western Gunworks of Pennsylvania (SNR)
Estimate $700-$1,200
Starting Price
$100
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May Firearms, WWI-II, 1700s-Civil War Liquidation
May 21, 2026 9:00 AM EDTNORFOLK, VA, United States
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