Original Matchlock Dated 1539

Here again, this collector has been very gracious with sending me more photos of his personal collection. This is a fabulous matchlock. My next Post will include the description for this piece. Hope you all enjoy. Thanks, Rick

Here is the description sent to me for the above. Rick.:

The stock of limewood, partly carved with triangular ornament; behind the barrel tang the Nuremberg city mark N. The barrel and lock of wrought iron, the first deeply struck twice with a Nuremberg maker's mark, two crossed crossbow bolts (also known from cranequins of the 1530's-40's), and the dated 1539. Although the upper end of the buttstock shows some damage the whole is preserved in unusually good condition regarding its great age; even the ramrod is the original, retaining its long iron finial threaded for cleaning tools. Overall length 112 cm, cal. 16 mm.

Only one other similar piece is known, the barrel bearing the same marks and date: it is on display in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum Nuremberg

An artist's depiction from the same period. Notice the similarities of the gun. :hatsoff: Rick.

Good gravy ! A swamped barrel and details many of
us have never seen before...Thanks much Ricky.
You certainly do deliver to the goods.
Wulf

Ricky.
Thank you so much for these photos. I get so excited my hands are shaking. Would you say this was a hunting or military weapon?

Thank you for posting the images and information. Absolutely amazing...

captivates me this type of weapon

I notice that the ramrod end is threaded, much like the modern ones. Could this be original, or is it a later replacement?

I think rather that it is younger.though the picture is less clear and difficult to be sure.but you're observant, it is 100% true.and the weapon is beautiful is also 100% true :wink:

That's an outstanding gun, thanks for posting :thumbsup:

The muzzle is very intriguing. I'll bet that is a weighty rascal!

:hatsoff: :wink:

A couple more period images of these matchlocks.

A couple more period images of these matchlocks.