Specimen, an imported and undated early 19^th century flintlock musket was likely produced for a state militia and was not converted to cap and ball. Possibly an 1808 model imported from Belgium, the musket is a large .70 - .72 caliber, single shot, three-band muzzleloader that features a 42” long round barrel. Iron lockplate is flat, measures 6.5” long and is beveled all around, not dated or marked in anyway. The flat sided hammer or cock with its single throat is plain. Iron flash pan is a separate piece and is secured by a single screw. Cock, battery (frizzen), battery springs, pan, and screws are retained. Frizzen spring fatigued or a replacement and the battery mechanics have no tension. Cock mechanics are strong.

Musket has a 42” long barrel secured to the black walnut stock by three iron bands. Barrel breech has stampings at the left side that exhibit the words “SALEM BIR.” These may denote early militia markings related to the States of New Jersey or Massachusetts. Above are proof marks “Eaglehead” facing left and a raised “P” within a recessed oval. Entire barrel is covered with an old, brown-red rust layer, hard and smooth.  Breech area has been cleaned to reveal the barrel markings. Large bow triggerguard measures 9.5” long and is rounded at each end.  Barrel tang screw looks to be an old replacement. No rear sight as normal with a brass blade front sight atop the double upper barrel band. A large trigger guard holds a sling swivel while the middle barrel band supports the second swivel. Bore is dark.

The black walnut stock is in good condition overall and appears to have been lightly cleaned up.  Flat exhibits two sets of stampings on the left side…”V” /  “L  G” all enclosed in a line enclosure. Also wears stampings “I” and “R” on flat.  Has normal dings and dents accumulated with service and age. Also has a large, wide steel unmarked sideplate. Original, 42” long, button-head ramrod retains its threaded tip.

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