This U.S. Model 1840 Flintlock Musket was manufactured by Daniel Nippes of Mill Creek, Pennsylvania in 1848 as part of two government contracts for 5,600 muskets. Nippes subsequently received two contacts to convert 2,000 Model 1840 flintlock muskets to percussion using the Maynard Tape Primer. This conversion uses a tape primer mechanism with the primer door marked "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTED/1816." The hinged door swivels downward to open and is secured by a pointed swivel catch in the center. The lock plate is marked "MILL/CREEK/PA/1842", which is vertically stamped behind the hammer. The barrel has a bayonet lug on the underside near the muzzle and is marked "U.S./JH/P" at the breech on the left side. The barrel tang, like the lock plate, is dated "1842" indicating the year of original manufacture at Nippes Armory. The oil finished walnut stock has script inspector marks (JH and WAT) on the left flat. The stock flat also has small block "JH" and "WAT" next to the circular inspector marks indicating the arm was re-inspected by the same inspectors after the primer conversion was completed. "U.S." is stamped on the buttplate tang. The musket has an iron ramrod. The Nippes alterations could be used either with tape or manually primed with single percussion caps.

Excellent. The correct armory bright metal surfaces show some surface blemishes with an overall bright appearance. The stock is excellent with a couple small filled repairs on the buttstock (right side) and some minor pressure dents and scratches. The cartouches are clear and crisp. Mechanically excellent. A fine example of a scarce D.S. Nipples conversion musket.