Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a great piece of War of 1812 and early American History! We have had several of these Model 1808 Contract muskets previously, but they had been converted to percussion for use in the Civil War. This example however is still in the original flintlock configuration! It's very rare that we get early muskets like this that are not converted to percussion. It does however have an interesting period modification to the butt stock. The "boat tail" on the top was sanded down, reducing the overall width of the stock, and some wood was grafted onto the back of the butt stock to change the angle of the butt plate. We do not know if it was damaged somehow, or changed to make it more comfortable to use, but it is definitely worthy of further research!

The lock plate of the musket is marked with a Federal Eagle over U.S. without any markings, often seen on these 1808 contract muskets. The markings on the breech of the barrel are mostly worn away, however we can still see a clear M marking for the militia of the State of Maryland, and below this is a faint but discernable [1]811 date, right in period for the War of 1812! Being issued to Maryland, there is a good chance this musket may have actually seen use during the conflict!

The 1808 Contract muskets are essentially an exact copy of the Springfield Model 1795, which in turn was merely a copy of the French Model 1777 Charleville. With the 1795 being truly the first officially adopted, and manufactured service long arm, these are an incredibly historic and important piece of United States small arms history, and a true “must have” for one looking to assemble a collection highlighting the lineage of American small arms.

Condition is very good, considering the age and use the musket must have seen. The metal has achieved a rich brown patina over the years, showing the expected oxidation, light pitting, and patina as expected. Original Band springs are in place with the original spring retainers. The stock has a lovely red brown color with a great finish. It does however have some cracking on the left side of the stock near the lock side plate, with some period executed repairs. Both original sling swivels are present, and move freely. The lock is still fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. For being about 212 years old, this is in surprisingly good condition.

A fantastic collector's opportunity! Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1811
Caliber: .69"
Cartridge Type: Cap & Ball
Barrel Length: 42 Inches
Overall Length: 57 1/2 Inches
Action type: Side Action 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.