Rare 4th Battalion New Jersey Volunteers Pattern 1756 Long Land Service Musket

Description:

Rare 4th Battalion New Jersey Volunteers Pattern 1756 Long Land Service Musket, c. 1778-81, 46 in., .79 caliber round barrel with ring decoration at the breech, traces of stamped Tower ordnance proof marks on the top of the barrel as well as a small crown at the end of the breech plug tang, and engraved regimental designation "4 BT. N.J.V" with a small floral device after the marking; double bridle lock with convex surface and double line engraved border, the pointed tail engraved "TOWER" and with an engraved crown over "GR" and stamped crown broad arrow mark below the pan, the inside surface of the plate stamped with a crown over "2" inspector's mark, "FG," and a small "F" in front of the mainspring, lock mainspring and both side nails marked with assembly number "I"; walnut stock with subtle teardrop decoration at the back of the lock mortice and side plate plateau, carved plateau around the breech plug tang, slight handrail butt, marked with a storekeeper's mark on the right side of the butt, crown inspector's stamp behind the trigger guard and illegible pair of initials between the third rammer pipe and the entry pipe; brass furniture proper for the pattern including a butt plate with long stepped tang, thumb piece engraved "E/38," trigger guard with acorn finial, convex surface side plate, long trumpeted upper rammer pipe, two short barrel form rammer pipes and an entry pipe with a long tang, and a nose cap; steel rammer engraved "2/11" just below button head, overall lg. 62 in.

Note: Originally composed of six battalions, the 4th Battalion was created from a reorganization of the regiment in 1778. For most of the Revolution the New Jersey Volunteers were stationed on Staten Island but parts of the 4th Battalion served in the southern states with the 3rd Battalion. The 4th Battalion later fought with Benedict Arnold as he invaded Connecticut and (just after it was again reorganized into the 3rd Battalion) at the taking of Fort Griswold in September 1781.
Estimate $8,000-12,000

Iron toned to a dark brown with moderate pitting at the vent area; steel has period refacing, curl at the top of the cock is bent forward a little; stock has scattered dings and dents, old stable crack in the wrist, reglued crack below the lock mortice, old crack at the breech to the upper side nail, forestock is restored from about 1 inch in front of the third rammer pipe forward; brass is toned to a dark yellow/brown.


Items may have wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords