Steven Jenks & Sons of Providence, Rhode Island, were awarded a U.S. government contract for 4,000 muskets on October 25th, 1808; of which 3,925 are reported to have been delivered between 1810-1814, with the last 75 withheld by Jenks as compensation he believed was due to him by the government. Jenks was among nineteen firms contracted to manufacture muskets authorized by an act of Congress in 1808 due to fears of war with European powers. These muskets would have been rushed into use during the War of 1812. "JENKS/RI" marked vertically on the tail of the lock with an eagle and shield motif above "US" marked at the center of the lock. "US" ahead of raised letters "CT" in a sunken oval above a "V" marked at the left quarter of the breech. Bordered "V" over "CW" inspection cartouche of Charles Williams marked on the left stock flat. "I.G" inspection initials marked in the stock behind the lower tang. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a US socket bayonet (does not fit, too tight) and reproduction leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Good with scattered light to moderate pitting mixed with dark patina. Stock is very good with mostly defined edges, scattered light scratches, a few chips in the ramrod channel, a crack ahead of and behind the lock, a chip ahead of the lock, a few chips at the toe, and crisp markings in the wood. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet is very good with some scattered light pitting.