Unusually Fine Japanese Matchlock Musket (Tanegashima) With Silver Decoration Circa 1825

41 inch octagonal barrel, .40 caliber. Front sight with silver bead. Classic tanegashima rear sight. Beautiful inlaid silver family mon. Elaborate 12 character signature ‘Masashige’. Two original brass barrel bands. Brass lock plate with original pan cover and fence. Engraved brass breech band.

Very fine Japanese red oak full stock stamped with Meiji registration marks and decorated with numerous silver inlays.

Besides the overall excellent quality this matchlock is in outstanding condition throughout. Barrel retains 90%+ original tobacco brown. Lock with uncleaned dark honey colored brass. Silver blossoms are sharp and crisp. Stock rates excellent plus with no cracks or splits and most of their original finish. Action needs attention but all parts are intact. Bore is excellent.

One of the finest quality and condition matchlocks we have had the pleasure to acquire and offer to our clients. If you are looking for a tanegashima that is a cut above the usual this lovely gun will fill the bill.