SOLD - US Marked Charleville Model 1766 Musket

Description

7/13/23 - This is a rare variation US Revolutionary War French Model 1766 Flintlock Musket. These French rifles were manufactured by several arsenals in France, with Charleville being the most common, thus these are often referred to as "Charleville" rifles. These muskets were imported for use during the Revolutionary War and typically saw heavy action. They were often re-worked and a scarce amount remain in the original configuration. This example has a model 1770 hammer assembly, which features a heart-shaped hole and rounded side plate. The rifle also has a model 1770 stock, according to the shortened comb near the buttstock. The lock plate is US stamped, as is the top of the barrel. These markings were added upon import from France into the United States, under George Washington's orders to reduce theft of their "new" military muskets. The wood stock is original and despite having a few small chips and cracks, is in great overall condition. The rear barrel band has no retaining pin, while the other two do. Most of the imperfections in the stock are around the lock plate on the right and left side. The right side of the buttstock is marked "IN", while the left side has a large "S" and a faint French proof stamp of some kind. The initials "WG" have also been scratched into the left side of the stock as well. The metal has dark spotty surface patina present throughout the metal. This is typical for these heavily used pieces of US Revolutionary War history, which were never blued or "finished". The smooth bore has mild rust speckling and patina throughout, but no significant corrosion. Comes with an original ramrod as shown.