The Model 1795 musket represents many firsts in U.S. martial arms, including being the first standardized official model of musket manufactured for the U.S. military, and is based on the French "Charleville" Model 1766 muskets widely used during the American Revolution. Model 1795s saw heavy use during the War of 1812. The Type I Springfield Model 1795 muskets are particularly hard to come by in any condition, with this desirable Type I example exhibiting a high level of condition not typically seen in the limited amount of surviving examples today. This example has "NC" marked on the breech of the barrel, suggesting use by North Carolina's militia. The lock is marked with an eagle and shield motif above a script "US" at the center, and a horizontal downward curved "SPRINGFIELD" at the tail; with this style of lock marking used between 1802-1803. The left of the breech is stamped with crisp "P/eagle head/V" proofs and a deep diamond shaped stamp. This exact musket is photographed and described on page 17 of the book "Springfield Armory Shoulder Weapons 1795-1968" in which one of the captions states, "Note the deep-struck barrel forger's mark at the breech of the barrel; this was done at the time the barrel was hand-forged to identify the individual doing the forging. If the barrel blew out during testing, the forger was charged back for three barrels, plus the one that blew." This example was likely taken out of active service at an early date and remains in its unaltered original flintlock configuration, lending to its high condition. "HC" and a script "R" marked on the left stock flat, and "AC" marked behind the lower tang. "1803" date marked on the buttplate tang. Includes a socket bayonet. Provenance: The Jonathan Peck Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

Exceptionally fine, with a mix of gray and smooth light brown patina on the iron surfaces, some patches of light surface pitting, very tight lock fitment, and sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. The stock is very fine with attractive raised grains and rich oil finish, a few minor chips, cracks on either side at the forend, a few minor cracks ahead of the buttplate, defined edges and mostly clear stampings. Mechanically fine. Included bayonet is good with scattered brown corrosion/pitting. Seize this rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest examples of a U.S. Springfield Model 1795 musket Rock Island Auction Company has ever had the opportunity to offer!