1816 Model Springfield Percussion Conversion Musket
Cone-in-Barrel Alteration Dated 1839 

Description

1816 Model Springfield Percussion Conversion Musket
Cone-in-Barrel Alteration • Dated 1839 

An attractive and historically significant U.S. Model 1816 Springfield Musket altered to percussion ignition through the cone-in-barrel conversion system. Originally manufactured as a flintlock and later modernized for percussion use, muskets of this type represent the transitional arms that equipped many volunteer units during the opening stages of the American Civil War.

The .69 caliber smoothbore barrel exhibits a pleasing dark gray patina heavily freckled with darker brown age spotting. The breech area shows notable pitting resulting from exposure to hot percussion cap residue during its period of service, a condition commonly encountered on percussion-converted muskets. A small double-diamond style stamp is visible on the left side of the barrel near the breech, while other barrel markings have been obscured by age and use.

The lockplate is clearly marked with the federal eagle motif forward of the hammer and “SPRINGFIELD 1839” at the rear. The lock retains strong mechanical function, operating properly and holding securely at both half-cock and full-cock positions.

Metal furniture, including the barrel bands, lockplate, sideplate, trigger guard, and buttplate, has developed an attractive dark brown patina consistent with long-term preservation. The “U.S.” stamp on the buttplate tang remains clearly visible. The sideplate is marked with the letter “C,” while the rear tang of the trigger guard bears the number “191.”

The walnut stock remains in fine condition with attractive color and surface character. A visible inspector’s cartouche is present on the left side of the stock behind the sideplate. The initials “DX” have been carved into the left side of the buttstock near the buttplate, likely a period ownership marking. The original ramrod with button-shaped tip remains present.

The rear sling swivel survives but exhibits a bend, while the front sling swivel is absent. Despite these minor condition issues, the musket remains complete and displays exceptionally well.

Percussion-converted Model 1816 muskets were among the most common arms issued to early-war volunteer regiments on both sides of the conflict. As the nation rapidly mobilized in 1861, thousands of these older but serviceable muskets were pulled from federal and state arsenals and placed back into military service.

This is a solid, honest example of a Springfield-produced percussion conversion musket, retaining strong markings, a visible cartouche, functional lock, and the unmistakable character of a weapon that bridged the gap between the flintlock era and the modern percussion age. 

Inventory Number: RIF 369