British Brown Bess Type III India Pattern .69 Cal Musket, 1790-1800 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1232
LSB#: 210907IL11
Make: British
Model: Type III India Pattern “Brown Bess”
Serial Number: NSN
Year of Manufacture: 1790-1800
Caliber: .65 Caliber Ball
Action Type: Single Shot, Muzzle Loaded Flintlock Musket
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “JPR|EXR|95”. The lock plate is marked with a crown over “5” and “0181”. The right side of the buttstock is marked with what appears to be a crown cartouche.
Barrel Length: 37”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a rectangular post fixed to the barrel. The ear sight is a v-notch post fixed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one piece hard wood with ramrod channel (ramrod included), capped forend, straight grip, fluted straight comb, and a brass buttplate that runs from the comb to the toe. Brass parts have light nicks and scuffs throughout. The stock has light-to-moderate nicks, dings, compressions, and scuffs throughout—most of which have been oiled over. The wood has several areas that are darker or appear stained. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the fronts of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock rates in Good-plus condition, as antique.
Type of Finish: Bright
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is rather dark. There is moderate erosion throughout.
Overall Condition: This rifle was finished bright. The barrel has light surface oxidation throughout along with scattered nicks, scuffs, and scrapes. The hammer/frizzen assembly has light-to-moderate surface oxidation. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The marking is clear. Overall, this rifle is in Good-to-Very Good condition, as antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: There is a steel ramrod stored under the barrel and a sling.
Our Assessment: This is a Type III India pattern “Brown Bess” musket that saw service with the British Army from the late 1700s and as late as 1854. This India Pattern was often used by Navy sailors when on land. It is in overall Good-to-Very Good condition for an antique. It’s fascinating to think who might’ve used this musket or who might’ve fought against it; the winner will have a little bit of British Imperial history to add to their collection! Good luck and happy bidding!
