US Commonwealth of Pennsylvania 1797 Contract Flintlock Musket

In the early years of United States independence, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania recognized the need to arm itself and authorized the purchase of 20,000 muskets through various private contractors. They were patterned after the French Model 1763 Charleville musket, which had been a popular musket used by Colonists during the Revolution. This example is one of 2,000 contracted with William Henry of Nazareth, Pennsylvania. In original flintlock, it features a flat lockplate with beveled edges, stamped vertically “HENRY/CP” behind the cock. The “CP” is for “Commonwealh of Pennsylvania”. Tapering round 43 3/4″ smoothbore barrel in .69 caliber, stamped at the breech with a “T”, “CP” and an oval with a small liberty cap above a “P” proof mark. This design was changed in 1799, showing that this musket was made before that date. Walnut full stock with iron mounts, consisting of three barrel bands secured by springs, trigger guard with long pointed tang, butt plate, serpentine side plate, and later ramrod with button tip. Sling swivels on front of trigger guard and middle band. Left side of stock with illegible stamp behind the side plate. Metal cleaned over light to moderate pitting; the stock sound, with rich patina and scattered handling marks typical of age and use.