*Rare St. Etienne 1718 Double-Barrel Flintlock Gun Replica – Collectible Display Piece

Item Overview

• Object Type: Decorative Replica of Double-Barrel Flintlock Rifle
• Markings: “St. Etienne” stamped on barrel
• Origin Style: French (St. Étienne, historically a major arms manufacturing city in France)
• Date (Marked): 1718 (replica year reference, not actual manufacture date)
• Size: Approx. 50 inches in length
• Materials: Wood stock and engraved metal components
• Condition: Good – no apparent structural damage, some patina and finish wear consistent with age or display
• Functionality: Non-firing display replica

Detailed Description and Assessment

This piece is a non-functional decorative replica of a double-barrel flintlock musket marked “St. Etienne 1718”, mimicking the style and construction of 18th-century French firearms. The town of Saint-Étienne, France, was a center of gunsmithing from the 17th through the 19th centuries, and authentic examples from that period can be quite valuable. However, this particular gun is not an original antique firearm but a replica made for decorative or theatrical use, likely 20th-century or later.

Key features that distinguish it as a replica include:

• Ornate but mass-produced-style engraving
• Lack of true flintlock mechanism internals
• Uniform wear and patination typical of display pieces
• Absence of proper proof marks or functioning parts

Despite not being authentic to the 18th century, it’s a desirable decorative piece due to its large size, vintage aesthetic, and historic styling. Collectors of militaria, film props, or vintage décor might find it appealing.

Historical Context

The flintlock firearm dominated European military and civilian use from the early 1600s through the mid-1800s. St. Étienne was one of France's primary arms-producing cities, and real firearms marked "St. Etienne" are often collectible. Replicas such as yours were popular in the mid-20th century and were often used as wall hangers, museum reproductions, or props for period settings

Current Market Value (As a Replica)

Item Type

Estimated Value Range

Decorative replica flintlock musket (non-firing)

$150 – $300 USD

Factors affecting value:

• Positive: Large size, well-preserved engraved details, vintage wood and metal finish, and recognizable “St. Etienne” marking.
• Negative: Non-functional, no maker's hallmark, some cosmetic wear.

Recommendation

If you're seeking a more precise valuation or authentication (especially if there's any doubt about it being a replica), consider a professional appraisal from a certified antique arms dealer or auction house that specializes in militaria (such as Cowan’s Auctions, Rock Island Auction Company, or Morphy Auctions).

Suggestions for Display or Sale

• Target Buyers: Reenactors, interior decorators, antique firearm collectors, or theatrical prop collectors.
• Selling Venues: eBay (under “vintage firearm replica”), Etsy (for décor), gun shows, or militaria forums.