Serial number 2838 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Mantons: Gunmakers", p. 73 as a 15 bore shotgun dating to 1797 and noted as owned by W. Keith Neal. Neal & Back note that the gun had a 34 inch single barrel, London proof marks, and "The flash-pan, which is semi-rainproof as above, and touch-hole are gold-lined. The barrel words are in gold. The barrel is fitted with a plug, and not a patent breech." The multi-stage smoothbore Damascus barrel has a silver bead front sight, "---MANTON * LONDON---" in gold inlay on top, "2838" between London proof and view marks on the underside, a gold band at the breech end, and the noted gold-lined touch hole. The serial number is repeated on the breech plug hook and inside of the forearm. The flat beveled lock has a stepped tail, "MANTON" signed at center, the noted gold-lined semi-rainproof pan, and a roller on the frizzen. The mounts is iron and includes a large stylized pineapple finial on the trigger-guard and floral, bird, and dog motifs. The walnut half-stock also has a green horn forearm cap, a checkered wrist, a vacant gold oval wrist escutcheon, and a raised cheekpiece. The wooden ramrod is fitted with an iron worm and horn tip. Provenance: The W. Keith Neal Collection; The Norman R. Blank Collection

Fine with nearly all of the period re-browned finish remaining on the barrel which displays distinct Damascus patterns and bright gold-inlaid markings, band, and vent liner. The lock has faded traces of original case colors and gray patina. The mounts exhibit mainly gray patina with some mild oxidation staining. The markings and engraving are distinct throughout but rubbed on the heel-plate tang. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering, minor cracks at the breech, light scratches and dings, and smooth finish. Mechanically excellent. An attractive John Manton flintlock shotgun dating to the late 18th century formerly in the famous W. Keith Neal Collection before being purchased by his good friend Norman R. Blank.