Antique WICKHAM U.S. Contract Model 1816 LEMAN CONVERSION Percussion Musket 1834 Dated LEMAN ALTERATION with BAYONET & SLING

Description:
Antique WICKHAM U.S. Contract Model 1816 LEMAN CONVERSION Percussion Musket

1834 Dated LEMAN ALTERATION with BAYONET & SLING

Here we present an antique M. Wickham Model 1816 Leman Conversion Musket manufactured in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by Marine T. Wickham, and was typically used by the militia in the early 1800s. “Probably the most notable armorer to work at Harpers Ferry before 1816 was Wickham. Residing in Philadelphia, Wickham served as an inspector of contract arms and general troubleshooter at the national armory between 1811 and 1816. Wickham possessed great talent as a gunsmith. More important, he exhibited a rare ability to manage men effectively while at the same time retaining their admiration and respect. Wickham decided to enter the world of private business after the War of 1812. Upon resigning his inspectorship in 1816, he took over an existing musket contract with the United States and later that year signed his first regular contract for 4,000 arms at $14 a stand. Then, on July 19, 1822, he signed a contract with the U.S. Ordinance Department for 5,000 Model 1816 muskets at $12 per stand, delivered at the rate of 2,000 per year starting on January 1, 1823. In December of 1823, he undertook an additional contract for 10,000 muskets beginning on July 1, 1824.

Not surprisingly two of his largest accounts were the Harpers Ferry and Springfield Armories. Both ventures prospered and Wickham continued to garner wealth from them until his death in 1834. His rise from an obscure country workshop to a leading arms manufacturer and businessman was a truly impressive achievement. This firearm would have been used in the Indian Wars, the Mexican-American War, and even the American Civil War.

This example received the Leman Alteration process of cutting the breech and screwing in a new breech with tang, nipple, and bolster with a clean out screw. Leman altered a total of 7,993 longarms for the Federal Government and an additional 17,574 muskets and 3,826 rifles for the State of Pennsylvania. This Leman altered musket is detailed and pictured on page 81 of George D. Moller’s book American Military Shoulder Arms Volume III.

The overall condition is very good. Strong action. Bright and smooth bore. Solid stock with an average amount of wear (minor scuffs and dings). “1843” dated lock. Cartouche remnants can be seen on the left wrist. The leather sling is in good shape. “US” marked bayonet.

Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction.

Barrel is 41 inches.

Caliber: .69 Percussion

Overall condition as seen in photos.

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$2885

#217298

 

Antique: Yes

Price: $2,885.00
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