Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original German .71 caliber, Model 1849 smoothbore, single-shot muzzleloader in very good condition. This is a scarce example, one of only 1200 produced for the City of Philadelphia. Musket measures a total length of 52 1/2" with a 38½" long barrel. Right next to the bolster it is marked by the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:

CITY
OF
PHILAD'A
A. WURFFLEIN

This indicates that the rifle was certainly sold for use in the United States. This type of marking indicates it was issued to the Philadelphia City Guard during the U.S. Civil War. "A. Wurfflein" was a gunsmith and inspector for the city, who stamped weapons confirmed to be serviceable. His stamp is also seen on percussion converted U.S. made muskets as well, so this is definitely not a German marking, just a German last name. During the conflict it was always possible that the Rebel forces might make it that far into Union territory. There was also the possibility of civilian incursions, so local guard units were deployed in many cities.

The lockplate surface has a lovely lightly oxidized patina, and has a smooth tail that differentiates it from the 1809 model. Markings are standard with none found behind the hammer. Forward of the hammer, the markings are mostly clear and feature a Prussian Eagle. The lock plate is also marked Eagle / SUHL / S & C, for manufacture by Spangenberg & Company. This company was one of the members of the Suhl Consortium, along with V.C. Schilling and Spangenberg & Sauer. There is also an anchor below this indicating its use by the Prussian Navy. The Prussian Eagle and Anchor are also stamped into the stock on the left side above the trigger. The hammer and barrel nocks form show moderate oxidation and wear. 

There are various inspector crown markings on the rifle, including Crown / KI on the side plate and trigger guard, and Crown / H on the brass barrel bands. The robust lock still functions correctly, holding at half cock and firing at full. All the brass fittings wear a mellow mustard patina. The rifle is missing both sling swivels. The buttplate has a finish similar to the lock and barrel.

The brown walnut stock with its shadowline cheek piece is quite handsome, with a good retained color. It has the expected chips, dents, and small cracks that are seen on a musket that saw long service, however it really is a great example of this type. There is a great deal of wear to the finish, with heavy cracking especially on the buttstock. There are no serious cracks to the wood, however. There are some wood graft repairs on the fore stock area along the cleaning rod channel between the nose cap and upper barrel band. This example is also missing the ram rod.

Ready to restore or display as is. This is a great opportunity to own a fair example of these truly rare Civil War import muskets, of which only 1200 were produced. Ready for further restoration or display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1850
Caliber: .71"
Ammunition Type:  Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 38½ inches
Overall Length: 52½ inches
Action: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.