The India Pattern was the standard British infantry weapon from the tail end of the 18th century and into the 19th century. George Moller noted this example as being U.S. imported circa 1799-1800 and wearing a state of Massachusetts surcharge mark that was later added to the barrel ahead of the British Royal Artillery regimental marking. U.S. imported British muskets are described on pages 3-6 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume II" in which the book states, "In 1799 and 1800 a total of 9,440 British muskets were imported into Philadelphia and placed in storage at the Schuylkill Arsenal there... there is a growing body of evidence indicating that these arms may have been early India pattern muskets procured by the British government." The top of the barrel is marked "ROYl ARTILy 6 R" ahead of the later added Massachusetts mark "to MS" of which would be indicative of issue by the federal government to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (MS abbreviation is correct for the time period) under the terms of the U.S. Militia Act of 1808. "MS" is also marked in the left stock flat. "Crown/GR" Georgian cipher marked at the center of the lock, "TOWER" marked at the tail of the lock. "310" marked on the buttplate tang. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a socket bayonet marked "MS" and "XI" on the socket, leather sheath, and leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Fine with mostly bright polished surfaces, some light brown surface patina on the barrel, and crisp markings in the metal. Stock is very good as sanded and re-oiled with numerous scattered scratches and dents, and a crack/chip ahead of the lock. Mechanically fine. Included bayonet is very good with some patches of mild pitting, and the sheath is also very good with light age wear. An interesting, historically significant military musket with markings indicative of both British AND American issuance!