Lot 1140: 1813 Alteration U.S. Springfield Model 1795 Flintlock Musket

This musket is featured and discussed on pages 60-61 of "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume II" by George Moller and was used as his example of the early Model 1795 muskets that originally had soldered on bayonets that were modified starting in 1813 by removing the first foot of the barrels, setting aside the middle barrel band, and fitting a sling swivel through the forend. Many of these muskets had bayonets that were coming loose. At least 7,042 muskets were altered in 1813. Moller indicates these modified muskets were sold off in 1815 with the exception of 1,000 reserved for possible naval use and mostly sold off in 1828. This musket has the usual Model 1795 components and markings and is dated "1803" on the buttplate. It also as three initials carved on the right side of the comb and is fitted with a black leather sling and a socket bayonet. A "GDM" collection mark is near the toe. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Good with silver-gray and brown patina, mild pitting, and general moderate wear on the metal. Fair stock with chips, slivers absent, nailed repair on the comb, and cracks. Mechanically fine.