The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on March 28, 1797, passed an act authorizing the purchase of 20,000 muskets to arm the State troops. In April and June of 1797, the Commonwealth advertised in the Independent Gazetteer and other Pennsylvania newspapers for bids to furnish 20,000 stands of arms to be marked near the breech with the letters “CP”.
On December 13, 1797, William Henry II of Nazareth, Pennsylvania, contracted to furnish 2,000 stands of arms.
Arms made prior to 1799 bear a deep sunken oval proof mark bearing a small liberty cap over P as displayed on the barrel near the breech.
This is a very fine untouched example of a William Henry II made, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania musket in as-found condition. All metal surfaces are a very pleasing smooth black/gray patina with minor surface oxidation limited to breech tang and trivial pitting in the flash areas around the touchhole.
The front sight/bayonet lug remains in place and a legible “CP” Commonwealth of Pennsylvania marking on the barrel; lock fits the stock precisely and is marked “HENRY” behind the cock along with ”CP” near the teat.
Measurement: .74-Caliber Smooth Bore. Overall length: 58.75"; barrel length: 43.5"
Material: Black walnut stock
Item Condition: The gun remains in original flint; the stock remains in fine condition. including original varnish. The lock is tight and smooth and dependably holds at full cock and half cock; the original ramrod is present. The stock displays a beautiful surface with a deep/rich patina. Scattered light handling mars are commensurate with age and use.
Price: $3,975
SKU 728-184
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.
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