Harvey Walklate Mortimer (1753-1819) was appointed gunmaker to the king circa 1783. The Mortimer family were one of the best known and revered gunmakers of the era and manufactured a wide variety of firearms including blunderbusses like this one which was manufactured around 1790. The muzzle is inscribed "HAPPY HE THAT ESCAPES ME" on the face. This rather humorous marking is known on coach guns by multiple gun makers from as early as at least the 1730s. Note the similar example on page 198 of "The Mortimers: Gunmakers, 1753-1923" by Munson. Other markings on the muzzles of coach guns of multiple types by Mortimer are also known. The barrel also has a 13 1/2 inch folding bayonet, two sets of London private proof and view marks flanking "crown/HM" maker's marks on each side at the breech, "H.W. MORTIMER LONDON/GUN MAKER TO HIS MAJESTY" on top at the breech, and nice engraving. The lock has a sliding safety and is marked "H.W.MORTIMER" at center. The brass furniture has floral and martial engraving designs, and the thumb plate has the initials "RO" in fancy script.

Fine. The barrel has a blend of faded original brown finish, gray and brown patina, some minor pitting, light oxidation, and some subtle Damascus patterns. There is some concentric rings around the touch hole, lending one to believe reconversion, which is not the case. The bayonet has 50% fire blue finish and brown patina on the balance. The casehardened lock has even brown patina. The brass has aged patina throughout. The stock is fine with some cracks and repairs around the lock inlet and forend tip and general mild scratches and nicks throughout. Mechanically fine. This is a really intriguing coach gun variation manufactured by one of the finest late 18th century gunmakers.