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 features round 43 3/4″ smoothbore barrel of .69 caliber, the breech stamped with liberty cap proof mark (indicates manufacture before 1799). Top of barrel with unit markings “8. Co. 84. REGT. PEN. M” (8th Company, 84th Regiment of the Pennsylvania Militia). Flat lockplate with teat at the rear, stamped “CP” behind the cock. While not marked with the maker’s name, this musket is reportedly the work of Lancaster contractor Peter Brong, who had a contract for 500 of these muskets. Walnut full stock with iron mounts, including serpentine side plate, trigger guard with long pointed finials, butt plate with top tang, ramrod with button tip, and three barrel bands secured by springs. Sling swivels forward of the trigger guard and on the middle barrel band. Top of butt tang stamped “No 183″; brass collection tag with “188″ on forward sling swivel. Very good condition, the metal with some pitting (mostly around the breech) and an even dark brown patina. Stock with typical handling marks and dark patina. Mechanics work perfectly. Overall length 59″. A fine, untouched example of an early American firearm.