A Queen Anne Period Doglock Blunderbuss by Richard Sinckler dated 1702

What makes this piece so extraordinary is the overall quality and condition. The GUN: Overall length of 35 1/2" having a 19" three-stage brass barrel going from octagonal to fluted to round ending with a flared muzzle measuring 1 3/4". Proofs marks are at the breech. The are also two iron sling mounts which would have been useful for carrying the gun into the 'fighting tops' of the ship. On the underside of the stock are three stamps, one being the broad arrow, followed by two others. More importantly, the stock has a red wax Ordnance seal impression indicating that this gun was submitted and approved as the standard to which all other similar guns would have to conform to. The lockplate is engraved "R Sinckler 1702" and also has the Royal cypher of Queen Anne with her crown above. Note: Richard Sinckler worked as an ordnance gunmaker from 1700-1720. The gun is mounted with beautiful brass regulation fittings including a vacant escutcheon at the wrist. The brass butt plate has an added element of feather edge decoration at the top. The ramrod may be original. CONDITION: The overall quality of the walnut stock is nearly 'mint.' The lockplate and cock show minor pitting. Bottom line: It would be hard to find another military/naval blunderbuss from this period in the overasll condition of this one. A real museum quality piece of history.