Lot 59

D. B. Border Percussion Pennsylvania / Kentucky Long Rifle

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000
This is a very finely made Pennsylvania long rifle made by D.B. Border, of Bedford County, Pennsylvania. He operated as a gunsmith and silversmith from 1821, and is known for the quality of his craft. This is an especially handsome rifle with exceptional silver and brass inlays in the stock, including a very fancy patchbox, a brass plate stretching 11.5 inches forward from the trigger guard, a silver escutcheon plate with two teardrop shaped inlays flanking it, and two “s” shaped inlays in front of it. There are 8 silver inlays on the forend as well. The butt features a large silver oval with a spread-winged American Eagle and Union shield, with a hand pointing in silver to its left, and a cut out of a powder horn on its right. The stock is nicely carved, with a cheek rest on the butt, and incised saltires on the forend. The lock is engraved “D.B. Borders.” The hammer is unusually long and graceful. The gun has double set triggers. The barrel is long  and octagonal, and there is a hole for an additional sight on the tang. There are letters and a star engraved on the barrel towards the breech that may well be the initials of the man for whom it was made. This is a truly superb example of the Pennsylvania/ Kentucky long rifle, in this case, a purely Bedford County Pennsylvania creation. Dimensions: 59 inches long overall, with a 43 inch barrel. Processing and shipping within the continental U.S. $70.00 plus 1.5% replacement cost insurance.

Condition

Excellent overall for its age. The double set trigger holds on the first pull, but the spring is strong and the lock works. The barrel has minor staining on it. The stock is excellent, and the many inlays are beautiful and excellent.