Lot 166

Edo (1603-1868) Japanese Tanegashima Matchlock

Estimate: $4,000 - $8,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,500 $250
$5,000 $500
$7,000 $1,000
Featured in this lot we have an ornately inlayed Japanese Tanegashima black powder matchlock rifle chambered in .51 Gauge and originates from the Edo-Period. The Edo-Period (1603-1868) saw less firearms use than in earlier periods due to its smaller conflicts and more practical sword applications. Due to this this style of matchlock rifle was mostly used for target practice, hunting, and self defense for store houses and farms. The rifle displays a wonderfully unique design with a butt designed to sit on the top of the shoulder rather than the western on the shoulder design. This style of rifle was used for over 200 years from the 1600's up until 1854 with the arrival of the U.S. Navy and the subsequent rearmament. This rifle displays a 41 1/2" long octagonal barrel, modeled hardwood stock, inlayed brass and gold ornamentation, brass trigger guard, and matchlock system. The barrel displays a wonderful inlayed and etched scene of a tree with blooming flowers and birds made of gold and silver. The stock is set with inlayed leaf and cloud brass motifs. The underside of the stock displays an engraved medallion showing a flower design. The stock also features a hole though the stock for the matchcord and leading towards the hammer. The barrel displays a widened muzzle end. The matchlock system shows a hammer arm designed to hold a matchcord with a brass spring and missing its lock pin and ram rod. The rifle shows good condition overall with light wear across the stock with some wear and damage with some pieces missing in the stock and one of the leaf motifs missing. The exterior shows good condition overall with some rust and patina. No Serial Number. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.