Product Details
A GOOD AND INTERESTING 1793 INDIA PATTERN BROWN BESS FLINTLOCK MUSKET CIRCA 1800, serial no 32023,
with 39in. barrel stamped at the breech with the Kings proofs, block front-sight bayonet lug, border engraved lock of rounded form with 'TOWER' on the tail and the Crown G.R. cypher to the centre together with the small crown arrow inspection stamp, fitted with the early pattern swan-neck cock, regulation brass mounted full walnut stock with carved apron around the barrel tang, handrail wrist and high comb, the right butt with a crowned ordnance storekeepers stamp dated 1800, the left butt bearing the interesting roundel in which are the letters 'P.L.D" or "P.D.L' depending on how it is read nearby is the number '32,023', this is a French mark for which there are two interpretations the first being Pour Le Droit (For the Right) the other Propriete de L'etate (Property of the State), complete with sling swivels, rod an old replacement, this is a superior example
Provenance: This is an early pattern Brown Bess service musket which was introduced as an emergency arm on the outbreak of war with revolutionary France. It was based on the East India Company's simplified Windus pattern musket hence it being refered to as the India Pattern. It was the standard musket of the British Infantry throughout the Napoleonic wars and all campaigns until the introduction of the percussion system in the 1840's. The end of conflict in 1815 and the reduction in size of the army saw many arms disposed of the foreign governments, in 1830 over 88,000 India Pattern muskets were sold to France, this example was obviously one.
Please click HERE to view Terms & Conditions. Please note all Lots are listed in accordance with UK Law, for overseas buyers, please ensure you are familiar with your relevant local firearms and customs regulations before bidding.
Estimate £1,700-2,000