The Prussian model 1809 measures 56.5 inches in overall length with a 41.25-inch long barrel in a.72 caliber smoothbore. It was originally manufactured as a flintlock weapon and later converted to a percussion firing system using a curved cone blouster seat that was forged directly onto the breech. The year of the conversion (1835) is stamped on both the left side of the breech flat as well as the face of the butt plate. Other markings include the letters FW located below a crown device. This cipher is also stamped into several places on the musket, right hand side of the butt, left side flat of the breech and on the lockplate face above the armory name of Saarn.

The 1809 model lock plate has a curved tail that terminates in a small teat. This feature distinguishes it from the later model of 1839. Both models of 1809 & 1839 were manufactured at several German armories, Potsdam, Saarn, NEISSE & Suhl.

The barrel is secured to the stock by three brass bands retained by springs; the upper band is double-strapped. There are matching assembly numbers stamped into the bands as well. Sling swivels (now missing) were attached to the trigger guard and to the center band. The trigger guard, barrel bands and butt-plate are all of brass. Both of the finials on the trigger guard and the toe of the butt-plate terminate in a three-pointed end design. Located on the butt-plate are a series of stamped assortment of numbers, including the year of conversion (1835) rack number 1799, 119359.

The stock is of a light colored beechwood. Located on the left side of the butt is a recessed carved cheek-rest. On the breech area is the rear sight composted of a simple notched iron block mounted atop the barrel tang. The front sight is a brass blade soldered onto the strap of the top barrel band. Ramrod is trumpet-shaped and is cupped on its face at the end of the rod is drilled and tapped for the attachment of a worm or ball puller.

This model of 1809 utilized a triangular type bayonet (not available with this musket) having an unslotted sleeve. A spring locking device is located beneath the barrel and engages an eccentric ring on the socket to complete the attachment.

Records show that the U.S. Ordnance Department purchased approximately 165,000 Prussian arms of which 100,300 were identified as smooth-bores. All of the shipments arrived in late 1861 through early 1862 when the need for arms was most urgent. There were no known Confederate contract purchases of this particular model musket, although their acquisition through battlefield capture is most likely.

Condition Report: This example exhibits field usage. Has medium to deep pitting located in and around the bolster side of the breech area. The bolster clean out screw shows pitting as well as the screw slot being somewhat burred from many attempts of removal over the years. The nipple cone is in excellent condition and the lock action is still very crisp. There is a 2” fragment of wood missing located at the lower front area around the lock mortise. Some overall dents and scratches, but no cracks or fissures to the stock. All iron parts, barrel, lock & ramrod exhibit a medium-darkened patina. Brass barrel bands and butt plate are of a pleasant yellow color.

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