This is a fabulous and ornate Tanegashima Teppo Japanese matchlock rifle musket originating from the Edo-Period (1603-1868). The rifle has a hardwood stock (possibly keyaki wood) with intricately inlaid brass adornments including various Japanese symbols such as the dragon and chrysanthemum. These Tanegashima or Hinawaju was a matchlock configured arquebus black powder firearm which was introduced to Japan through the Portuguese Empire in 1543. These were used by the Samurai class and their Ashigauru “foot soldiers”, changing the way battle was fought in Japan forever. The barrel is octagonal forged with a flaring widened muzzle end with gold inlaid wreath like band and brass inlaid front sight. The barrel measures 40.25-inches long. This has a functioning brass matchlock hammer and ball trigger mechanism with brass trigger guard, matchlock swingout cover and chrysanthemum on spring. The top of the barrel to wood connection has an intricately engraved Japanese figure with inlaid / overlaid brass dragon running down the top of the stock. Both sides of the stock have amazing floral inlays across all sides with another intricate dragon on the bottom. The barrel is a large caliber, likely around 50 caliber, the ramrod is not present. The gun is in very good condition, working with nice original patina, a small portion of the brass at the end of the stock has slightly folded up, otherwise very good. Similar examples of Japanese Matchlocks have sold for an excess of $5,000. Measures overall 52.75-inches long. Antique firearm, does NOT require an FFL.