Approximately 275,000 U.S. Model 1842 muskets were manufactured in total by the Harpers Ferry Arsenal and Springfield Armory between 1844 to 1855, with surviving examples bearing production dates anytime before or during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) encountered far less frequently today, let alone in high condition like this exceptional 1847 production example offered. These were the last of the smoothbore muskets manufactured by the U.S. arsenals, the primary arms of the U.S. Army in the Mexican-American War where they saw extensive use, and remained widely used during the Civil War by both sides, often after having been rifled, with this example still retaining its original smoothbore. "HARPERS/FERRY/1847" marked at the tail of the lock with the federal eagle and shield motif over "US" at the center, "1847" dated barrel tang, "AR/P" and "V/P" above eagle head proofs at the upper left area of the breech, on oval bordered script "JAS" cartouche stamped on the left flat, and a "US" marked buttplate. Provenance: The Andrew Singer Collection

Exceptionally fine, with mostly bright surfaces on the iron, some scattered areas of minor freckling, and absolutely sharp markings and edges. Stock is excellent with attractive original raised grain, rich oil finish, a few minor storage marks, distinct edges and an exceptionally crisp cartouche stamp. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional Mexican-American War era U.S. Springfield Model 1842 musket would be extremely difficult to improve upon, and would make a superior addition to any U.S. martial arms collection!