First Model Virginia Manufactory Musket with Leman Conversion
Item #: AA3260
Click on an image to enlarge
This is a 1st Model Virginia Manufactory musket that has been converted from flint to percussion. The 1st Model Virginia Manufactory was produced from 1802 through 1809, with approximately 14,000 manufactured during that period. These muskets were produced in different barrel lengths, from the standard 44", the common 42" and also in 39" and 36" lengths. This musket has an overall length of 59 1/4", with a barrel length of 44". The barrel has an "out of the attic" untouched, dark patina along the entire length of the barrel. The exterior of the barrel is smooth, with virtually no pitting along the entire surface of the barrel. A bayonet lug can be found on top of the barrel 1 1/2" back from the muzzle. These muskets were originally flint, but this one has been converted to percussion by Henry Leman of Philadelphia. The letter W can be seen stamped into the added breech section. The bore gauges at .74 caliber, is dark and is rusted along the entire length of the barrel. There are no visible inspectors stamps, proofs or regimental or county markings on the barrel. An iron button head ram rod came with this musket. It has been ground at the threaded end to be an improvised screw driver. All three barrel bands and springs are intact. they, along with the remainder of the iron furniture have a dark patina that matches the barrel. The lock plate is stamped VIRGINIA in block letters over Manufactory in script letters in front of the hammer. Behind the hammer, stamped in a vertical arc is RICHMOND and the date of 1805. The mechanics of the lock work perfectly, holding in half and full cock. The iron butt plate and trigger guard have that dark aged look to them, and have a smooth non pitted surface. The number 33 is stamped into the side plate, trigger guard in tow places, all three barrel bands, butt plate and on the stock behind the rear trigger guard finial. The original stock has the same dark appearance as the rest of the gun. There is a small brass copper patch cross the front trigger guard finial, held in place by four brass pins. There is also evidence of patches having been used on each side of the trigger bow to stabilize cracks in the stock. There are two stress cracks in the stock by the side plate running towards the muzzle, and one at the rear of the lock going towards the butt plate. All three cracks are shallow and do not cause a problem with the integrity of the stock. There is wood loss on the left side of the stock just in front of the side plate. The right side barrel channel has some wood loss between the rear and middle band and between the middle and front band. Two sets of initials are carved into the left side of the stock comb, ER and TH. I have no idea when this Virginia Manufactory was converted, or where it ended up afterwards. But I do know this is an opportunity to own a musket manufactured by the country's first state owned firearms factory, one that likely saw service during the war of 1812, probably the Mexican American War and possibly the Civil War. It will make a great addition to your American made long arm collection.
Shipping Weight:
9 lbs
Item # AA3260
(Sold)
We are currently not accepting on-line orders. If you see something you would like give us a call.