Prussian Model 1809 Potsdam Musket Attributed to Confederate Use
Item #: AA3238
Click on an image to enlarge
This is a Prussian Model 1809 smooth bore musket in .72 caliber produced at the Potsdam Armory. The musket has an overall length of 56 1/2", with a barrel length of 41 1/4". The exterior of the barrel has an overall smooth surface with a plum patina. There is moderate pitting and pin pricking at the bolster and breech area from firing the weapon. These guns were originally flintlock, but were converted to percussion. This was accomplished by forging a curved cone seat directly onto the breech. The bore is dark with light surface rust, but no major pitting. A gauge shows this one now at .73 caliber at the muzzle. A simple block rear sight is mounted on the barrel tang, while a brass blade front sight is on the rear strap of the front band. The left barrel flat is stamped from muzzle to breach: Prussian Crown, 2, 86, Crown and 82 with two punch dots beside it. Above these stamps is another crown and the initials FW. The lockplate is stamped Potsdam over the letters GS forward of the hammer. Above the Potsdam stamp is the Prussian crown. The lockplate and hammer have a dark smooth patina that matches the barrel. The mechanics of the lock are strong and crisp. The lock has a rounded tail that ends in a small teat, distinguishing it as a Model 1809. The three barrel bands, trigger guard, escutscheon plate are all brass, while the butt plate is made of iron. The trigger guard and side plate have a darker patina than the barrel bands, with the bands having a dull golden patina. The number 82 with two punch dots is found on all the brass pieces, as well as the barrel, butt plate and ramrod. Along with the 82:, a crown and the number 2786 are stamped into the butt plate. The front sling swivel is missing, but the rear sling swivel is still reporting for duty. The ramrod is the correct cupped, trumpet shaped rod. In addition to the 82: stamp, the rod is also stamped with either a c or U and the number 555. The walnut stock is in good condition. It shows plenty of use and service, having the usual bumps and dings, but the only wood loss is a small spot along the ramrod channel forward of the middle band. There is a substantial crack in the wrist that has been stabilized with two flat head screws. The left stock comb has a recessed check rest. The initials AA and the number 7 have been carved into the stock on the right hand side. There are several stamps on the bottom of the stock just behind the trigger guard finial. It appears to be the letter L, another letter indistinguishable, The Prussian crown and the letters FW. The US Ordnance Department purchased just over 100,000 of these smooth bore Prussian arms at the beginning of the Civil War. These shipment arrived during late 1861 and early 1862. By late 1862 they were already being replaced with better arms. The majority of these saw service in the Western theater, and some were captured and put back into service by the Confederates. Evidently this is one of the ones put into service by the Confederates. This Potsdam was purchased at the Texas Gun Collectors Show and came with a small typed history of being passed down through the family until it was finally sold a couple years ago. Ada Anderson is found in the Civil War database as being the 1SG of Company G, 7th Texas Infantry Regiment. His brother Zechariah was a Sergeant in the same company of the 7th Texas. The notes will go along with the gun to it's new owner. This is a chance to pick up a Confederate used weapon that won't break the bank!
Shipping Weight:
9 lbs
Item # AA3238
(Sold)
We are currently not accepting on-line orders. If you see something you would like give us a call.