US Whitney 1812 Contract Flintlock Musket

Description

Featuring flat 6 1/2″ long lock plate, marked only with “N. HAVEN” in a scroll forward of the
cock. Broad rounded cock and slanted brass flash pan. Tapering round 42″ barrel of .69
caliber secured by three iron barrel bands; the bands held in place by springs. The
stamped “P” breech marking heavily worn and unreadable. Oil-finished walnut full stock
with iron trigger guard, serpentine side plate, butt plate with tang, and button-tipped ramrod;
sling swivels forward of trigger guard and on middle barrel band. Complete and original,
showing considerable use; the metal with untouched dark patina except the lock marking
(worn) cleaned. Cock holds on both half and full cock. Stock sound, with no cracks;
showing dents and dings from normal field use. The area of the stock above the lock and
behind the barrel breech shows wear from repeated firing. Undoudtedly a veteran of the
War of 1812 and possibly later conflicts. The Whitney 1812 Contract musket included
design advancements and was the forerunner of the M1816 musket. Overall length 57″.