These Artillery/Cadet alterations of Sappers Musketoons are described on pages 237-238 of "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume III" by George D. Moller. According to Moller, 1,030 total Springfield Model 1847 Sappers Musketoons were originally manufactured from 1847-1856. Reportedly, 228 of these were altered circa 1856-1857 to the Artillery configuration for use by military academies by removing the saber bayonet guide and lug, adding a lower stud for use with a socket bayonet (this example never had a lower stud added), removing the sling swivels, and changing the original button-headed ramrod to a trumpet-headed ramrod. The front barrel band has a brass blade front sight on the forward strap. "1854" dated lock, and a boxed script "JS" inspection cartouche marked on the left stock flat. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the bottom of the buttstock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Good with scattered mild pitting and corrosion, a filled in section where the bayonet guide was on the right towards the muzzle, a removed saber bayonet lug on the right of the front barrel band as noted above, and nice lock markings. Stock is also good with scattered scratches, dents and chips, an absent section at the toe, and a nice cartouche. Mechanically excellent.