3251 SHIP’S BLUNDERBUSS OF HIS MAJESTY’S REVENUE CUTTER

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This item SOLD at 2022 May 08 @ 14:03UTC-04:00 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 900.00 USD
Estimated at 1,800.00 - 2,600.00 USD

VIPER. Cal. approx. 2" at the bell. NSN. Bbl. measures approx. 23 7/8". A fine example of a British maritime blunderbuss utilizing a heavy 24" bbl. w/ 3 distinct proofs at the breech. Top of bbl. engraved, “HIS MAJESTY’S REVENUE CUTTER VIPER”. It is noted in period accounts that Captain Gunthorpe, who was the commander of the Excise Cutter Viper, succeeded in handing over to his Majesty's Navy during the year ending October 1, 1810, no less than 13 smugglers that the ship had seized. Since this was the highest number recorded for that year he was awarded a prize of 500 pounds. The viper remained in the Revenue Cutter Service for many years. The lock appears to be a pattern 1793 version of a standard Brown Bess mechanism. Lockplate marked w/ a crowned “GR” in front of the cock & “TOWER” behind. Brass trigger guard, buttplate, sideplate, ramrod thimble & entry thimble. Iron ramrod & nosecap. Full wooden stock. CONDITION: wood has a few minor dents & dings w/ a crack extending from mid bbl. channel back toward the sideplate. Bbl. has a pleasing patina. Lock appears lightly cleaned but functional. Bore is dark & a bit dirty. (01-20294/BF). $1,800-2,600.