This musket is the Pattern 1777 variation of the Short Land Pattern. These muskets were introduced during the American Revolutionary War and were the primary arms of the Royal Army from the late 1770s until the introduction of the India Pattern. This example was manufactured c. 1777-1785 and has "P/54" inscribed on the top of the barrel and on the wrist escutcheon. The barrel also has the standard combination bayonet stud/front sight, Ordnance proofs, a "crown/4" mark by the vent, and what appears to be a "*/TH" contractor on the left at the breech. "WD" is stamped just to the rear of the side plate on the left stock flat, and additional markings are stamped on the right side of the butt and just to the rear of the trigger guard tang. The lock has the standard Georgian cipher and "TOWER" markings along with double line borders and a "crown/broad arrow" stamp below the priming pan. The cock spur has the 1777-1785 profile. The musket is complete with a button head ramrod marked "P/31", a socket bayonet, a reproduction black leather scabbard, and reproduction buff leather bayonet baldric and sling. Provenance: The Cranford Dalby Collection

Fine with mix of silver-gray and gray patina on the iron, some oil staining and light oxidation/pitting, aged patina and verdigris on the brass, and mild overall wear. The re-oiled stock is very good and has some slivers absent, general dents and strike marks of the type associated with combat use, and some minor cracks. The bayonet is fair with heavy pitting. The reproduction leather sling is fine with mild wear. Mechanically excellent.