3345 RARE MODEL 1797 SPRINGFIELD "SHIP'S MUSKET".

Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 1,000.00 USD
Estimated at 2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
Cal. 69, NSN. The Secretary of War ordered 400 of these in 1797. This well done professional reconversion appears to be an example of this early model, 41.5" barrel, deep cartouche proof at breech. Lock has flat faced reinforced cock, inset faceted pan, bridled frizzen having curled toe, feather spring with bulbous finial. Lock is marked with eagle over script "US" forward of cock, "SPRINGFIELD" in vertical arch on tail. Stock which is shorter than the standard musket to accommodate short barrel, attaches using 3 spring retained bands. Comb is of correct later style with lower comb. Iron furniture consists of trigger guard having spear finials & undated buttplate. A rack number "E8" is observed behind trigger guard tang. CONDITION: good as reconverted. Metal has dark iron patina with pitting as expected from salt water exposed arm that is over 200 years old. Lock is also pitted but shows considerable cleaning w/ silver highlights. Conversion work is very well done. Stock is sound & solid with old refinish, good edges. Clear smooth bore with pitting. This is a rarely encountered Springfield that has a low survival rate. PROVENANCE: David Condon 1985. (01-24555/JS). ANTIQUE. $2,000-3,000.