These scarce muskets were manufactured by Springfield Armory in 1844-1846, with a total of approximately 504 manufactured. With the recent adoption of percussion weapons by the regular army, the Ordnance Board realized that it would be necessary to train their future officers with similar weapons. So, in 1841 the board requested such an arm from Springfield Armory that was to be of .57 caliber with a 40 inch barrel, casehardened percussion lock, and browned barrel and mountings. These muskets were used for drill by the West Point Corps of Cadets until 1856, when they were replaced by the rifled variant of the Model 1851 Cadet. Model 1841 Cadet muskets are described on pages 184-188 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume III" with the lock of this exact musket pictured at the top of page 187. A stud for a socket type bayonet is positioned on the bottom of the barrel near the muzzle, and the barrel is fastened to the stock by three barrel bands secured by springs. "SPRING/FIELD/1844" marked at the tail of the lock and an eagle/shield motif above "US" marked at the center of the lock. "V/P/eagle head" proofs marked on the left breech end of the barrel, and an "1844" dated barrel tang. "US" marked buttplate tang. A "+" carved into the left stock flat and a partially legible name carved into the left of the buttstock that appears to read "Thomas/A". "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a US socket bayonet and reproduction leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good, retaining half of the original brown finish with some light pitting and some patches of light dings on the barrel. Lock turned to a mix of mottled brown and gray patina with strong traces of casehardened finish on the hammer. Crisp markings in the metal overall. Stock is good with scattered mild scratches, dents, chips, a few chips in the ramrod channel, a crack ahead of the rear lock screw, a crack running behind the lock and up the wrist, a crack on the left of the wrist, and carvings as mentioned above. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet is very good with sharp edges and some scattered light pitting.