Thank you cel7, Corrado and Jim for your valuable input on this piece. I guess I was thinking pre-1800 simply for the fact of the Waters patent and my (often) mistaken belief that percussion cap/pin-fire and other mechanisms taking over into the 19th excluded continuation of the flintlock system. Fascinating to learn about this maker, his later work with his son and his location in the Birmingham district. In any case, I love this item even though I'm more of an edged weapon fan. As it undoubtedly pre-dates at least the later 1820's, it still falls in nicely with the end of Age of Fighting Sail, so it will remain in my collection. Thanks again to all!
Cap'n Mark
