Manufactured c. 1839. It is recorded on page 110 of "The Mantons" by W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, where it is noted as owned by "N. Blank, U.S.A." A certificate from F. Theodore Dexter for Norman Blank is included. The concave rib has a gold bead front sight with a gold sunburst pattern inlaid base, "John Manton & Son, London." in gold inlay, and gold inlaid foliate patterns. The breech plugs and the Damascus barrels feature additional gold inlaid scroll patterns. The underside of each barrel has the serial number and partially faded London proof marks, including what appears to be an "18" bore marking (the barrels now measure 16 bore). The serial number is repeated on each breech hook. The locks are blued with gold inlaid scrollwork and double line borders and are each signed "JOHN MANTON & SON/PATENT" in banners at the center. The wedge and wrist escutcheons are gold, and the remaining mounts are blued steel with fine engraving including a dog scene on the trigger guard bow and a trio of pheasant on the tang. The finely figured maple stock has both bird's eye and flame figure and is serial numbered on the inside of the barrel channel.. The included wood case has a John Manton & Son trade label, and G. & J.W. Hawksley powder flask. Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

Very good showing an old refinish with 90% plus blue and brown finish, bright gold inlays, some light pitting, and general mild wear. The stock is also very good as refinished with some repairs, crisp checkering, and stunning figure. Mechanically fine. The partially relined case and flask also very good with mild age and storage related wear.