Nicholas Beyer Flintlock Kentucky Long Rifle 48" barrel, .50 caliber. 63" overall length. Marked N. Beyer on barrel, silver inlays include an engraved eagle on cheekpiece, a small silver teardrop inlay on each side of wrist, and a long silver teardrop silver inlay on the buttplate tang. This rifle won the Kentucky Rifle Associations 1988 Silver Award for Best Relief Carved Rifle. Nicholas Beyer was a prolific gunsmith, and this rifle is a an example of one of his best works. Early 19th century. $20,000-30,000 Provenance: James D. Julia Auction, 2014, Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin; Private Collection, Anacortes, WA.

Nicholas Beyer (1770–1830) – Lebanon County, Pennsylvania
A pillar of the Lebanon School, Nicholas Beyer came from one of the region’s earliest German families. Active from about 1795 to 1825, he worked as both gunsmith and farmer, crafting rifles for their perfect balance and precise engraving. His workshop along the Tulpehocken Creek supplied arms to local militias and settlers heading west, and his descendants preserved several examples into the 20th century— proof of a craftsman whose work combined frontier practicality with Old-World refinement.

Very fine condition overall. Stock is in great condition with distinct carving and deep engraving still visible. The flintlock is a proper and professional reconversion. Minor repair of forend wood at the muzzle, which is nearly invisible. Please call for more photos and details.