Brown Bess - original or copy?

[Bob J]

My friend inherited a Brown Bess 1760-something model (the model Brits were using in American revolution, though it may have stayed in England)that his father thought was an original. Its condition is so good that originality has been questioned. Is also been suggested that maybe someone refinished and old one. Before his father passed away he had said that the 'Bess had been reconditioned in England during WW1. Apparently the Brits were in such a short supply of firearms that they "reconditioned" everything they could get their hands on, fearing a German invasion, and handed them out to the Home Guard (old men and youngsters). Handed out muskets :shocking: Well, I dunno..

I'm no expert, and if its original its got to be worth quite a bit even "reconditioned". And if its not original, then still worth something for re-enactor?

My question is, who could he consult to find out its worth and authenticity?

 

[Donny]

Any stamping?? :hmm: proof marks???

 

[mike alexandre]

A good BP retailer should be able to tell you if its original or a copy. The finish to the stock,build of the lock and general marks etc and how the gun looks and feels will all be clues. If its original and in good condition and not messed about with

 

[Bob J]

Any stamping?? :hmm: proof marks???

Yes. Locked is stamped "Grice". will be going over to look at it this weekend. Will writed down any other proofmarks.

 

[CrackStock]

"Grice"

This is a bit of a red flag. That is a common marking for reproductions.

Most commonly it was used by Pedersoli. Look at all of it carefully. You will likely find "Made in Italy" stamped somewhere inside the lock. Other repro companies used "Grice" markings as well.

CS

 

[musketman]

Any stamping?? :hmm: proof marks???

Yes. Locked is stamped "Grice". will be going over to look at it this weekend. Will writed down any other proofmarks.

Please refer to our proof mark section in the links, it covers both original and reproduction proof marks...

Below is a quick link to the proof mark's main page...

PROOF MARKS