Indian Trade Gun???

[Capt. Jas.]

OK, Got to the PC this morning where I can actually see.
The OP is correct! This does not appear to be a Wilson mark like I am familiar with. Wilson had an open asterisk while this is more flower like.

I question these teardropped proofs to be lookalikes of oval London Company proofs. I have never seen authenticated London company proofs that were teardropped in shape. Maybe someone like Joe Puleo would know for sure and be able to provide sufficient documentation to prove it but I have never seen them. Many provincial makers used marks very similar to company marks as a selling point.

If there is a third lock bolt hole behind that sideplate, it is barely covering it.

 

[Capt. Jas.]

Wilson's mark registered with the London Gunmakers Co. along with oval London proofs.

 

[Rod Lassey]

Regarding the teardrop proofs, check out the Wheeler NW gun on pages 212 and 213 in Hanson & Harmon,'Firearms of the Fur Trade'. Proofs and makers mark exactly as the one under discussion.

MStriebel, if I were you I would take a bunch of detailed photos, and email or send them down to the Museum of the Fur Trade. Jim Hanson, who probably knows more about this than anyone alive, will give you an objective and honest opinion.

Rod

 

[MStriebel]

Rod,

Thanks for the suggestion. I have sent photos and background information to the Museum of the Fur Trade. If I get a response from them, I will be sure to post it on the forum.

Thanks,

Matt

 

[rickystl]

Can't really add anything, but to say this is a super interesting "solving a mystery" type Thread.
This Thread reminds me of the Thread I posted a couple years ago on the Forum requesting more information about an original NWT Fusil I ran into quite by accident, and was able to purchase. With the knowledgeable assistance from Members of this Forum we were able to identify the gun. It was sure fun.
Good luck on your research. Rick. :hatsoff: