CIVIL WAR Antique M.T. WICKHAM U.S. M1816 Percussion Conversion MUSKET NEW JERSEY Marked BOLSTER Conversion to Percussion
Description:
CIVIL WAR Antique M.T. WICKHAM U.S. M1816 Percussion Conversion MUSKET
NEW JERSEY Marked BOLSTER Conversion to Percussion
Here Ancestry Guns presents an antique Wickham Model 1816 Conversion Musket manufactured circa 1831 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by Marine T. Wickham, and was typically used by the militia in the early to mid-1800s, as this example is marked “NJ” for the state of New Jersey. This example would have started out life as a flintlock, and with the barrel dated “1861” it was likely converted right at the start of the American Civil War. “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.
The advent of the Model 1842 Musket made the M1816 obsolete, but not unserviceable. Eventually, most made their way to storehouses and armories. Beginning in 1848, when more than 700,000 of all types of flintlock muskets where reported in storage, the most serviceable where converted to percussion ignition. Three types of alteration were performed. All alterations involved grinding the flash pan down and replacing the hammer. The "French Style" conversion added a drum and nipple to the flashhole. The "Belgian Style", or “Cone Conversion”, involved plugging the vent hole with a weld and tapping a nipple directly into the barrel.
This example has an “1831” dated lock, “1861” dated barrel, “H&P/L” on top of the barrel and “NJ” on the left.
The overall condition is good. Strong action. The bore is in good shape for its age, has darkened, and remains smooth. The wood throughout has a few dings and dents, overall is solid. Markings are legible. Original dark brown patinas. Here’s a nice musket that was likely used in the American Civil War after its conversion from flintlock to percussion.
Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction.
Barrel is 42 inches.
Caliber: .69 Percussion
Overall condition as seen in photos.
Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Delivered directly to your door by express mail!
Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.
$1900
#260576
Antique: Yes
Price:
$1,900.00
Buy Now