These Cadet Muskets were made from 1851-1853 and utilized the small Model 1847 Musketoon lock. A total of 4000 of these scaled-down muskets were manufactured and issued to various cadet organizations including the famous Virginia Military Institute (VMI). The lock plate is marked "SPRING / FIELD / 1852" in vertical lines behind the hammer and is stamped with the eagle and shield above "US" in front of the hammer. The left side of the barrel has the "V / P / eagle head" proofs, "1852" on the upper tang and "US" on the buttplate tang. The top of the wrist has a diamond inlay marked "30", "US" stamped behind the trigger and the left stock flat is marked with a cartouche and a the number "9". The musket has an iron ramrod with solid, trumpet-shaped head.

Fine. The bright finish has turned to a brown patina with some minor dark spotting on the barrel, lock plate and hammer. A darker smooth brown patina is visible on the barrel bands, side plate, trigger guard, lower tang and between the muzzle and first barrel band. There is some mild corrosion on the buttplate that exhibits a mixture of smooth dark patina and smooth brown patina. There is limited flash pitting. The lightly oiled stock is fine with some minor dings, dents and scratches. All markings are clear and crisp.