US M1816 Flintlock Musket

Description

M. T. Wickham, of Philadelphia, made approximately 16,600 Type III Model 1816 muskets between 1822 and 1837. This example with lock plate stamped “US” over “M. T. Wickham” in an arc, with “PHILA/1834″ stamped vertically behind the cock. Tapering round 42” barrel of .69 caliber, stamped at the breech “US” with inspector initials “AH” and “P” in a jagged-edged circle. Left side of stock with inspector cartouche “AR” (Adam Rhulman). “RD” stamped in stock behind trigger guard. “US” on butt plate tang and illegible cartouche in the wood nearby. Barrel secured by three barrel bands secured by springs; sling swivels at front of trigger guard and middle barrel band. Original ramrod. Metal is mostly smooth, with some age staining and patches of light pitting, heavier pitting on the butt plate. Mechanically excellent. Overall length 57 1/2″.