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  • /Lot 249

Lot 249:American Four-Barrel "Mule Ear" Combination Gun

December 9th, 2022|Rock Island, IL
  • /Auctions...
  • /Catalog...
  • /Lot 249

Lot 249:American Four-Barrel "Mule Ear" Combination Gun

December 9th, 2022|Rock Island, IL
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Estimated Price$5,500 - $7,500
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Incredible Finely Engraved and German Silver Mounted American Four-Barrel "Mule Ear" Combination Gun

This fascinating combination gun has two 28 gauge smoothbore barrels over two .38 caliber rifled barrels. The upper rib is fitted with a blade front and adjustable notch rear sights with ornate finials and inlaid with silver and gold at the breech. The gun is equipped with two back action locks. Each lock has two hammers; one for the upper barrel and one for the lower barrel on their respective sides. Only one hammer can be cocked at a time. They are fired using a single trigger. The locks have floral scroll and border engraving. The spurred trigger guard has an engraved scene with a bald eagle on the bow. The other components mainly have scroll and floral engraving. The bottom of the buttstock has a small compartment, and there is a "cap box" on each side. Opening the box on the left side reveals a compass. The left side of the butt also has dog and bird inlay, and the right side has two stars. There are also engraved strips, and attractive engraved German silver repair plates. The writer does not recall seeing a more elegant wrist repair.

ConditionVery good with mostly dark brown patina along the barrels, some pitting around the nipples, gray patina and distinct engraving on the locks, lightly aged patina and mostly crisp engraving on the German silver furniture and accents, and mild overall wear. The lower barrel pin is absent. The left hammers are broken (one striking face absent); otherwise, it is mechanically fine. The stock is also very good with a well-executed period wrist repair, attractive figure, glossy finish, and minor scratches and dings. This is a very interesting American muzzleloading combination gun. You don't find four barrel combination guns very often, and you almost never find them with so many attractive German silver accents.
Details
ManufacturerAmerican
ModelPercussion
TypeShotgun
ClassAntique
Caliber / Gauge28
Barrel27 inch solid rib
Finishbrown/bright
Stockwalnut

Item LocationRock Island, IL
Views2958
Catalog page204
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