Lot 170: Documented U.S. Springfield 1840 Flintlock Musket with Bayonet

The Model 1840 was the last flintlock musket manufactured by the Springfield Armory between 1840-1844, and 26,841 of the 30,421 were converted to percussion between 1849-1851, and more converted after, making examples in original flintlock configuration exceedingly rare. The Model 1840 musket is described on pages 487-492 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume II" with this exact musket pictured on pages 488, 489, and 490. An "eagle/US" mark is at the center of the lock and "SPRING/FIELD/1841" on the tail of the lock, various parts inside the lock are marked with single digit assembly markings, "V/P/eagle head" proofs on the left of the breech, "1841" dated barrel tang, oval script "JM" (Justin Murphy) and "TW" (Thomas Warner) inspection cartouches marked on the left flat, and "US" marked buttplate tang. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a US socket bayonet and period leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good with scattered light pitting mixed with dark patina overall, and sharp markings on the lock and barrel. Stock is also very good with nice raised grain, scattered scratches and dings, a crack ahead of the lock, a crack behind the lock, some chips behind the barrel tang, some chips at the toe, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet is very fine with sharp edges, sling is very good with light cracking.