This unmarked Germanic muzzleloading jaeger air rifle dates to around the late 18th-early 19th century. It features an octagon barrel chambered in approximately .38 caliber/9.5 mm with deep six-groove rifling, a large brass ball reservoir, a lock with external mainspring and double set triggers, and a full length hardwood stock with horn end cap and sliding patchbox. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/2093" hanging from the trigger guard. Absent sights. Includes a wooden ramrod (slightly short). Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Very good, with scattered moderate freckling on the bright surfaces, with defined edges in the metal overall. Stock is good, with a large split at the middle (held in place by the two lock screws, removal of the lock allows the stock to separate), and some scattered scratches and dents. The hammer does not properly remain in the cocked position. Absent sights.