Serial number 7086 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Mantons: Gunmakers", p. 97, as a single barrel 16 bore sporting rifle dating to 1819 and noting “Flintlock replaced by Caplock Jno Manton & Son Patent." It was common practice for flintlocks to be updated to percussion ignition with this rifle benefiting from a conversion by the makers. This rifle is also noted as owned by "N. Blank, U.S.A." The Damascus barrel has a fixed-blade silver front sight, dovetailed rear sight with two additional folding leaves, "John Manton & Son DOVER STREET" signed on top, and a casehardened patent breech with vented rosette engraved platinum plug and scroll engraving en suite with the standing breech, lock, and mounts. The flat casehardened detented lock is signed "JNO MANTON & SON/PATENT" and has a blued sliding half-cock safety. The rifle has a single set trigger. The wedge and wrist escutcheons are silver, the forearm cap is dark horn, and the remaining mounts are blued steel. The maple stock has a checkered wrist and an oval raised cheekpiece. Replacement wooden ramrod with brass tip. In green baize lined fitted mahogany case, the lid with Manton & Son trade label, and accessories including bullet mold serial numbered to the rifle, brass-mounted copper Sykes powder flask, japanned tin of rifle patches and old handwritten label stating "Mr. CLIVE'S/Long Rifle.", possibly for Lord Plymouth which would indicate the rifle was purchased via W. Keith Neal. Provenance: W. Keith Neal; The Norman R. Blank Collection

Very fine with 85% faded original brown finish and distinct Damascus patterns, 60% original case colors, 75% original blue finish, beautiful dark aged patina on the silver, mostly smooth gray patina on the balance, some light traces of oxidation, and crisp engraving and markings. Barrel with numerous dents along the ramrod under-rib and at the breech extension. The stock is fine with crisp checkering, cracks below the lock and on the left flat, some splices, and general overall wear. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are very good and some light age and storage related wear. Overall, a very attractive cased John Manton rifle.