The First Model rifles (aka Type I rifles) were manufactured in Richmond, Virginia, and have been recorded with dates from about 1805 to 1808. Estimates range from 200 to 333 produced for the state militia. George Moller lists the latter figure in "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume II: From the 1790s to the End of the Flintlock Period" and features this rifle as his example on page 318. His discreet "GDM" collection marking is near the toe. Considerably less than 333 of these rifles remain today. This example is dated "1806" at the rear of the lock plate below "RICHMOND". The lock plate is also marked "VIRGINIA/Manufactory" with the latter in script at the center. The barrel has dovetailed blade and notch sights and a partial regimental marking "15" on top at the breech. It has been bored out to .50 caliber and has faint rifling. The rifle also features the correct First Model rattlesnake shaped four-piece patch box inscribed "Don't tread" and "on me" on the side plates read looking down from above the comb. The patch box is opened via a button on the buttplate tang. The snake's tongue is lightly carved into the stock which runs all the way to the muzzle and has simple iron furniture, a "P" behind the trigger guard, a low comb, and a shallow cheek rest with light incised line at the edge. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Good as reconverted to flintlock configuration with dark brown patina and applied finish on the barrel, moderate pitting concentrated at the breech, slight gap to the pan, dark blue-brown appearance on the lock along with mild pitting and faint central markings, blend of dark brown patina and applied finish on most of the furniture, lighter gray patina on the patch box, and some general mild pitting. The refinished/restored stock has cracks, chips, and slivers absent and mild overall wear. The lock does not hold half-cock but otherwise functions.