November 15 & 16, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/15/2022
1 of 600 M1795 pattern muskets produced to fill an 1801 Virginia contract by James Haslett, delivered in 1802. Fit with a 44 - 3/4" approximately .72 caliber barrel marked "US" at breech. Unlike other other Virginia contract muskets, this example does not bear regimental markings on the barrel. Lock plate is flat with beveled edges marked vertically near the tail "HASLETT" and fit with a gooseneck cock and integral iron flash pan. Stocked in American walnut with "V / CW" cartouche stamped by the lock bolt plate. Iron furniture is of Charleville styling standard for M1795 muskets along with Virginia contract guns. Complete with iron ramrod. According to Frederick Gaede in his American Society of Arms Collectors Bulletin article "James Haslett, Baltimore Gunsmith, and the War of 1812" which includes photographs of this musket, only 3 examples are known to have survived. This rare musket is also accompanied by an 1812 dated letter signed by James Haslett, addressed to a James Buchannan in which he reviews arms for acquisition. During the War of 1812, Haslett served several roles including involvement in the acquisition of arms for Maryland militia groups. CONDITION: Musket is very good overall. Iron components exhibit a pleasing, honest dark brown patina throughout with some areas of pinprick oxidation. Stock has a somewhat dark appearance, showing some scattered period impressions. Good mechanics, appearing to be a professional reconversion. Document is fine with some folding creases and a minor tear along the left edge. Ink has oxidized to brown with age remaining legible. BAS
Caliber/Bore
.72 Smoothbore
Model
M1797 Virginia Contract
Paperwork
Document, Information