This very rare, original ‘Sappers’ Model 1847 Springfield Musketoon, also known as a ‘Sappers & Miners” model, was contracted by the Ordnance Department in March 1847 for military service. Produced by the Springfield Armory circa 1848 to 1859, 250 of these were made in 1847-1848; 80 made in 1855; and 500 made in 1856. Musketoons are considered a ‘small musket’ and they were contracted for the Artillery, Cavalry and Sapper & Miner branch use. Original Sappers’ type musketoons were fitted specifically with a unique, sword-bayonet stud on the brass barrel band. This musketoon was altered by the armory to an artillery model by removing the special twin-studded bayonet lug on the right side of the barrel muzzle and also replacing the unique studded barrel band. A regular socket bayonet lug was also added to the bottom of the barrel.

This altered Sappers & Miners musketoon, dated “1855”, was part of the eighty percussion pierces manufactured in 1855 for the Ordnance Department. It is a desirable weapon in excellent overall condition. The musket is a .69 caliber, smoothbore, single-shot muzzleloader that measures 41” long with a 26” long round barrel. The lock plate is flat with beveled edges and exhibits a surface that features a fine, dusky light gray color with a mild peppery look. Lock markings are the standard “spreadwinged eagle / US” in front of the hammer in excellent condition. To the rear of the hammer in sharp three lines is “SPRING / FIELD / 1855”. Mechanics are strong and crisp. All metal surfaces have been cleaned at one time and wear a pleasing, smooth light gray patina.

The 26” long barrel exhibits sharp proof marks “V / P/ Eaglehead” on the left breech along with the date “1855” clearly stamped on the barrel tang. Bore is smooth and wears a dusty scheen with light pitting; should clean to semi-bright. Barrel is secured to the stock via two flat barrel bands, a double-strapped upper band and a lower band with no sling swivel. All components are iron and wear the same mellow gray patina. The dark, uncleaned stock is black walnut with an oil finish and is in excellent condition with no cracks or breaks. It does show its share of acquired dents, dings and scratches. No swivel fitted at the toe on the butt. Stock flat opposite hammer exhibits one government inspector oval cartouche that is slightly obscured by a wood gouge. Screws slightly buggered. Butt plate is stamped “US”. An excellent altered specimen of the U.S. Model 1847 Sappers & Miners musketoon, a very desirable collectible.

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