Lot 488

1881 John Griffiths Percussion Cap .51 GA Rifle

Estimate: $3,000 - $6,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
Featured in this lot we have a John Griffiths percussion cap 1881 rifle chambered in .51 gauge. The rifle was manufactured by John Griffiths in Cincinnati, Ohio. John Griffiths (1839- 1865) was a flintlock and later percussion cap Kentucky rifle maker in Cincinnati, Ohio. Origginally John Griffith, he later added an "s" at the end to differentiate his work from his brother Joseph Griffith who also manufactured firearms. The rifle features a 36" long thick octagonal barrel, walnut stock, brass trigger guard, double trigger system, percussion cap hammer, and marked brass plate. The brass plate across the stock is marked "S.C. Puckett Elk. Creek. MO 1881" which is most likely the original owner. The lock plate is marked with a etched floral design and "J. Griffiths". The piece shows a warm brown finish across the barrel with the wood showing a good finish with some light wear. The piece shows some wear across the exterior due to age and use. No Serial Number. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.