Original Civil War Era Prussian Potsdam M1809/39 Percussion Converted Musket by Neisse Arsenal dated 1834 – Reg’t Marked Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original German .75 caliber, “Potsdam” Model 1809 smoothbore, single-shot muzzleloader in very good condition. These were designed at the large Prussian Arsenal in Potsdam outside of Berlin, though they were also manufactured elsewhere. Musket measures a total length of 56 1/2″ with a 41″ long barrel, and has been converted to percussion configuration. There are signs of powder burn around the breech area, so this is a gun that saw significant use after conversion to percussion, most likely in the U.S. Civil War.

The lockplate surface has a nice patina as well, and exhibits a lovely gray lightly oxidized patina. Lockplate is a curved tail that terminates into a small teat that differentiates it from the later 1839 pattern lock plate. Markings are standard with none found behind the hammer. Forward of the hammer, there is a CROWN over Neisse (or Neiße) for the Prussian Arsenal in that area. Under this is f. and the date of 1934. The nocks form of the barrel also has an 1834 date, and has a CROWN / FW proof mark, for the Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III, who reigned 1797 – 1840, so this is the correct proof for this era. Under this is another stylized N for Neisse Arsenal, and there is also a Crown over B for Beschuss = proof load fired on the left side of the barrel

Unlike many examples we have seen, this musket is all brass mounted, with a very nice brass butt plate. This still has regimental markings, which read 241 / 22. L. W. R., most likely for the 22nd Landwehr Regiment, weapon 241. The left side of the butt stock has another CROWN / FW proof mark. There are additional proof marks on the bottom spine of the butt stock, a great research opportunity.

The robust lock still functions, however the tumbler is worn so it can fire at half cock as well as full. Finials of the trigger guard and the toe of the butt plate terminate in distinct three-pointed ends, correct for this model. Both sling swivels are still present and in good condition. The stock looks to be Beech or maybe Walnut, and has a lovely honey color, with a great polished patina. There is only minor wear and no major damage, making this a very nice example. There are a few missing chunks along the cleaning rod channel, as often seen.

A fine Prussian “Potsdam” Pattern 1809/39 smoothbore percussion converted musket made at Neisse Arsenal in Germany. Many of these were imported from Germany just prior to the U.S. Civil War and issued mostly to the Confederacy. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1834 – converted circa 1840
Caliber: .75 inches
Ammunition Type:  Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 41 inches
Overall Length: 56 1/2 inches
Action: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.