Our Price: $1495
1797 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Contract Musket by John Miles, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, c. 1798-99
On March 28, 1797, the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania authorized the purchase of 20,000 muskets with which to arm its militia. The first state contract for Charleville pattern muskets. John Miles received contracts in 1799 and a renegotiated contract in 1801. Generally it is believed that muskets with the liberty cap over 'P' proof were made prior to 1799 as is this example.
43 3/16 in., .71 caliber round barrel with a liberty cap over "P" proof mark in a sunken oval cartouche on the left side of the breech; flat lock plate with pointed tail crisply stamped "MILES/CP", the inside of the plate stamped "ECHLIN" and "IB"; walnut stock with iron furniture and steel rammer.
Overall lg. 58 3/8 in.
Wood crack at toe of lock plate and lengthwise behind rear band. Threaded ramrod is a little shorter than the barrel. Sling swivels removed a long time ago. Lock functions but hammer does not cock. Nice example with a nice price.
https://ccrelics.com/1797-commonwealth-of-pennsylvania-contract-musket-by-john-miles-lancaster-pennsylvania-c-1798-99#sigProId97f1d166d8
