Springfield Type III Model 1816 muskets were manufactured between 1831-1844. The Model 1816 Musket was the primary infantry long arm during the Mexican War and many of these muskets were converted to percussion in the 1850s, making flintlock examples like this desirable. They were extensively issued during the first few years of the Civil War. The lock plate is marked "SPRING/FIELD/1831" behind the hammer and "eagle/shield/U.S." at center. The barrel tang is dated "1832". Casehardened lock and the remaining components finished brown. According to page 426 of the book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume II" by George D. Moller, "In 1832, Springfield Armory fabricated 10,200 brown-finished muskets, and the remaining 3,400 muskets were finished national armory bright." Includes a socket bayonet and leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Fine, retaining 70% original brown finish with some light muzzle wear, light scratches, and light flash pitting. Lock turned to a gray patina. Sharp markings on the barrel and lock. Stock is fine as lightly sanded and re-oiled with some light handling marks, a small crack ahead of the buttplate tang, and slightly undersized butt. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is very fine.