Made circa 1810-1820. 38 caliber with a 43.5” barrel. This is a very fine example by one of the most desirable makers. The barrel is nice and sharp with a gray patina. The barrel has been cleaned. The top of the barrel is marked “M* Fordney” The stock is fantastic with cross hatch checkering with silver studs on the wrist. The patch box is exquisitely engraved. The stock along the barrel has been repaired, but it is almost indetectable. This gun has also been reconverted. Melchoir Fordney is was a Lancaster gunmaker from 1811 till his death in 1847. Fordney lived with a common law wife. He was killed in 1847 by a religious fanatic with an Axe. The religious fanatic was trying to cleanse Fordney of his sins.