You could go for a less expensive but maybe not totally area/historically accurate option to get your feet wet, get yourself into the hobby to understand it all better, get your kit together, then down the road get something nice.
It's unfortunate that the market for these isn't huge so there...
A Kentucky/Pennsylvania would be appropriate for a well-off citizen, as they required more work (rifling, styling, etc.) than a trade gun (mass produced). My understanding is that many of the KY/PA rifles were commissioned one offs by wealthier individuals but not always.
Pedersoli used to make one, not sure if it's in production still.
Here's a link to a non-firing version that can be converted if you're handy with a drill or have a drill press, all that needs to be done is have the touch hole drilled. Also gives some history. May not be exactly what early...
I'd say Colonial of either flavor depending on your preference. You can buy a second barrel if you want both, they come in .58, .54, and .50 and I think they're about $300~.
Fowler, 16ga if you only want to shoot shot or a 20ga if you want to shoot roundball and shot. The 20ga has thicker...
I need to collect some spending money for my first trip to the Fall Shoot!
Shoots steel well, front sight has been replaced with a silver blade, dovetail has not been peened. I never got around to sighting it in on paper. Removed the ugly cerakote and it's raw steel with some patina forming...
Kibler's Longrifles. You cannot do better in function, quality, and authenticity for the money. I'm ordering his Southern Mountain Rifle as soon as my Colonial sells.
Absolutely stunning guns you'd be proud to show off at the range or display on the wall. Here's how mine evolved from in the...