Original Civil War Era Prussian Potsdam M1809/31 Percussion Converted Rifled Musket – dated 1832 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original German .75 caliber, “Potsdam” Model 1809/31 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 almost 56 1/2″ with a 41″ long barrel, and is currently in the percussion configuration. While first introduced in 1831, percussion conversions continued until 1839, right before the Dreyse Needle Fire rifle came out. This makes it hard to tell if this gun was produced and converted, or just produced with part already converted.

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. It also was rifled at some point, which would have increased the accuracy.

The lockplate surface has a nice patina, and exhibits a slightly peppery look from scattered fine rust pitting. Lockplate is a curved tail that terminates into a small teat that differentiates it from the later 1839 model. Markings are standard with none found behind the hammer. Forward of the hammer, the markings are mostly clear and show a CROWN over a stamped POTSDAM, for manufacture at the Potsdam Arsenal. The barrel nocks form and the butt plate are both dated 1832. There are other markings on the barrel and stock, which are not entirely legible. There is however a 190 stamped into the barrel, sight, and stock, as well as the name L. CUTT.

The robust lock still functions correctly, holding at half cock and firing at full, though the hammer screw is a replacement. All the brass fittings wear a mellow bronze patina. Finials of the trigger guard and the toe of the butt plate terminate in distinct three-pointed ends, correct for this model. The trigger guard screw, side plate, and all three barrel bands have matching number 16 stamped on them. Both sling swivels have unfortunately been removed.

Black walnut stock with its recessed cheek piece is handsome and strong. The wood color is very nice with a great patina, with the expected dents and other wear from long service. There is a bit of missing wood around the barrel tang as well. The bottom of the stock has a CROWN / FW cartouche by the trigger guard, as well as some other markings.

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: 1832 – Converted & Rifled Later
Caliber: .75 inches – 5 groove Rifling
Ammunition Type:  Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 41 inches
Overall Length: 56 1/2 inches
Action: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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