A Volunteer Percussion Musket EIC 1840 Type by John Wiggan
Missed out on this item? Click to view all current Antique Muskets, Rifles & Sporting Guns Free UK delivery on all items
with an Earls coronet to the stock 49” overall, 33” round barrel. The lock of the pattern used by the East India Co. on their A and B pattern muskets and fusils has a bun nut retained hammer and is engraved JOHN WIGGAN with serial or rack number 8. Walnut stock with EIC pattern brass furniture including the scroll trigger guard of the fusil type is stamped to the right side with 8 and to the left with a large Crown of Earls form over F. Nose cap with EIC pattern bayonet spring catch. London proofed barrel with standing rear sight is engraved 2 on the tang. With correct bayonet with rack number 9.
Made by Wiggan to the exact specification of the EIC large bore fusil, which he also made for that company, several of these guns with the large crown on the stock are know to exist.
It is believed they were made for the Earl Ferrers to arm his servants and ground keepers, presumably to defend his estates in the event of invasion from the continent or more likely from poachers and thieves from the local area.
Circa 1842
In very good condition with good bore, sharp, well marked stock and some original finish to the metal work a nice gun with an interesting history that would warrant further research.
John Wiggan, Gunmaker to the Royal Family & the Pacha of Egypt
Washington Sewallis Shirley, 9th Earl Ferrers 1842-59 of Staunton Harold Hall Leicestershire.