Lot 173: Documented U.S. Springfield Model 1816 Type III Flintlock Musket

Springfield Type III Model 1816 muskets were manufactured between 1831-1844. The Model 1816 Musket was the primary infantry long arm during the Mexican-American War and many of these muskets were converted to percussion in the 1850s. They were extensively issued by both the Federal and Confederate armies during the first few years of the Civil War. Model 1816 Type III muskets are described on pages 424-426 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume II" with this exact musket photographed at the top of page 424. "P/eagle head/V" proofs at the left of the breech, "W/O" and "5" at the top of the breech, scrubbed barrel tang, "SPRING/FIELD/1839" in three vertical lines marked at the tail of the lock and "eagle/U.S." at the center of the lock. Circled script "AH" (Asabel Hubbard) cartouche marked on the left stock flat, and circled script "J.A.J.B." (James Andrew Jackson Bradford) cartouche marked on top of the stock comb ahead of the buttplate tang indicating the stock is from a contractor assembled musket c. 1832-1835 along with "W" and "11" indicating conversion to percussion at the Watervliet Arsenal c. 1849-1851. The buttplate tang is "US" marked (faint). "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes US socket bayonet, leather sling, and wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Fine as assembled and reconverted to flintlock configuration (latter per Moller in Jonathan Peck's study of U.S. lock markings which included this lock) with some scattered light pitting and sharp markings in the metal. Stock is very fine with attractive original raised wood grain, defined edges, some light dents and scratches, a small crack below the lock, and crisp cartouches. The included bayonet is fine with some patches of light pitting and sharp edges. Mechanically excellent.