Large quantities of French firearms were imported for use by the American revolutionaries in their struggle against the British crown. This example was manufactured at the St. Etienne Arsenal circa 1775 and is marked with "crown/HR/Manufacture de St. Etienne" on the lock plate below the removable iron pan, "1775" on the barrel tang, and three proofs followed by "75" on the left side of the barrel at the breech. It has no sights, early/naval pattern brass furniture and an iron ramrod. Removable collection mark in white under varnish on the trigger guard. With this example dated right at the beginning of hostilities in the American Revolution, it is quite possible it played some role in the struggle for independence.

Good, showing mostly bright and antique patina on the brass with dark gray patina on the balance over mild pitting overall, mainly concentrated near the touch hole. The lightly sanded and reoiled wood has minor dings and scratches throughout and a few minor cracks. Mechanically fine.