Unmarked "Charleville pattern" muskets used to be a mystery to collectors, but now they are highly sought after examples of early American arms manufacturing. While the American Independence was officially gained in 1783 after the signing of the Treaty of Paris. it would be a full 12 years before a national armory was set up to arm the newly founded nation. During this interim period, several private firms were given the task of arming both the militia and regular army. These martial arms were built in the "Charleville style" and conformed very closely to the M1766 French musket that saw heavy use during the Revolution. They are largely devoid of markings both on the stock and lock, with only an ocasional date of proof mark stamp showing up on some barrels. These contract arms largely predate the founding of the Springfield Arsenal in 1795, although it appears that at some continued to be purchased by the Federal government until 1800, when Springfield's production was high enough to keep up with the young countries' demand for muskets.
This particular musket is a great example of an early contract musket. Like most of these early Charleville-style contract guns this piece is unmarked with the exception of a proofmark and inventory number on the barrel. Prior to the "discovery" of these rare contract guns, many collectors thought that these rare specimens were simply French of Springfield muskets whose markings had been removed as a result of heavy cleaning. However, further examination of these pieces reveals several characteristics that are unique and not shared by their Springfield and French cousins. For instance, this particular musket has a unique stock comb; with flutes that aren't cut nearly as deep as the M1766 or M1795. Additionally the location of the barrel bands is set differently than both the Springfield and Charleville.
The lock of this musket is still in its original flintlock configuration - it does not appear to be a reconversion. The cock holds solid on both full and half cock and the frizzen spring is nice and crisp; holding the battery in both the proper open and closed position.
The stock is in great shape. It is full length without any major damage; with the exception of some sturdy repair work around the lock mortise.
The barrel is full length and features some light salt and pepper pitting both inside and out.
The furniture is all original, including the ram rod; which is full length.
