Antique M. T. WICKHAM U.S. M1816 MEXICAN-AMERICAN WAR Flintlock MUSKET FEDERALLY INSPECTED “GF” Marked Musket

Product Description

Antique M. T. WICKHAM U.S. M1816 MEXICAN-AMERICAN WAR Flintlock MUSKET

FEDERALLY INSPECTED “GF” Marked Musket

Here we present an antique M.T. Wickham Model 1816 Musket manufactured in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by Marine T. Wickham circa 1816-1823 and was typically used by the state militias in the early to mid-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 with the Ordnance Department 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.

There is a Federal Inspector mark of “V/GF” on the left stock flat, representing George Flegel. When Wickham left the Ordnance Department to go into private business, it was Flegel who took over after being trained by Wickham. Flegel was the inspector of “Contract Arms” for the U.S. military between 1816 and 1823, dating this rifle some time in that period.

The overall condition is very good. This is a reconversion to flintlock. The action is excellent. The bore is smooth and untouched. The walnut stock bears clear inspection markings. A nice piece!

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

Barrel is 42 inches.

Caliber: .69 Flintlock

Overall condition as seen in photos.

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$2600
#233053