This Harpers Ferry U.S. Model 1816 flintlock musket was manufactured in 1836. Known by collectors as the Type III and made from 1831 to 1844, it is finished in ""National Armory Bright"". As these were the latest U.S. flintlock muskets, many were altered to percussion in the 1850s. This example is in original flintlock configuration. The 42"" round 69 caliber smooth bore barrel has a fair bore with scattered pitting. The barrel has the expected VP over eagle proofs, a V on the left flat, and a small A over 57 (inventory number?) at the top rear. The barrel tang is correctly dated 1836. The barrel, lock, and hammer are polished bright. The remaining furniture has a brown patina. The lock is marked with a strongly struck eagle over US at the center and HARPERS over FERRY over 1836 at the tail. The HARPERS is very lightly struck with the H, P, R, and S either missing or partially visible. The ramrod and both swivels are present. The stock is good with light to moderate wear, a possible horizontal V inspection mark on the left flat, an old missing chip at the top front of the lock, and a small chip at the bottom of the center band. The action functions correctly. Many of these Type III Model 1816 flintlock muskets were used (and used up) in the Mexican War. They are surprisingly hard to find.