On one of the auction sites is what is described as an 1821 built M1816 contract musket. It seems like it could be a contract 1816 pattern in all respects, other than having a Tower marked lock. Not a Bess lock though. The lock plate vaguely resembles an 1816, but the flintcock and frizzen/pan are totally different. It is marked with the crown, but lacks the cypher of a monarch. The description isn't much of one. It could be all bunk.
From the description: "...This was contract built for the Massachusetts Militia using various parts including the “Tower” marked lock (though it is not a British Tower lock- it was labeled as such in order to be qualified for use in the production of these muskets)...." Excuse me, come again?
I'm not bidding on this, just curious as to its origins. I have never seen anything like this. Very nicely built, whatever it is. Is it a legitimate contract gun that never saw service? Is it period built from parts? Is it modern built from parts?
What thinks ye?
From the description: "...This was contract built for the Massachusetts Militia using various parts including the “Tower” marked lock (though it is not a British Tower lock- it was labeled as such in order to be qualified for use in the production of these muskets)...." Excuse me, come again?
I'm not bidding on this, just curious as to its origins. I have never seen anything like this. Very nicely built, whatever it is. Is it a legitimate contract gun that never saw service? Is it period built from parts? Is it modern built from parts?
What thinks ye?
