Private contract musket

Clark of London, English · late 18th century

A private contract .76 caliber musket made by Clark of London, circa late 18th century. The musket is constructed of a walnut stock, steel barrel, stored iron ramrod and brass fittings. Proof marks and stamps are engraved along the breech top of the barrel: [SP] and [LONDON]. The proper left side plate is marked by a “39”. The same “39” is engraved along the top side of the stock, and below it on the extended brass butt plate are: [ NY / 24]. There is damage to the end of stock on the proper left side of the barrel, and a glue-like material between one of the stock’s prop clamps. A white auction tag identifying the musket and lot number is tied by string to the trigger guard.