Do different lock plates command a premium for 1816 conversions?

[jonk]

And if so, how does that affect overall value?

[John Holland]

Jonk -

Now you have stepped into the realm of "The Collector"! To answer your question very simply, yes the contract manufacturer of a M-1816 can command a premium based upon the number of arms delivered and survival rate. When you get into the conversions premium value will depend on exactly which conversion it is. Then you can segue into sight alterations and rifled versions. The world of collecting M-1816 muskets is probably the most diverse that you can collect without going broke quickly. An example of that would be attempting to collect Mississippi rifles!

If you are interested in M-1816 muskets I would strongly suggest you purchase "American Military Shoulder Arms, Vol's 2 & 3" by George Moller. Within those two volumes you will find very definitive information on the M-1816 musket. There are others, but this would be the best start.

JDH

[bilge water bob]

John
since we're on the subject, I just bought a Johnson contract 1816/1830. Who was the inspector that used "y6"? It's on everything on the gun, lock, barrel bands, trigger group and stock. I poked around the internet and found nothing, any idea?
thanks
bob

[jonk]

Thanks John. I don't have the coin to become a serious 'collector' of said guns, but a local antique shop has one in nice shape (missing the sight leafs but with the base) at a reasonable price. Just wondering exactly what its worth before I consider springing for it. Whitney lock plate for what its worth.

[John Holland]

JonK,

Email me direct at jh44ny (at) Verizon.net for further discussion.

Thanks.

John

[Jim_Burgess_2078V]

John
since we're on the subject, I just bought a Johnson contract 1816/1830. Who was the inspector that used "y6"? It's on everything on the gun, lock, barrel bands, trigger group and stock. I poked around the internet and found nothing, any idea?
thanks
bob

Bob,

The alpha-numeric numbers seen on your M1816 musket are assembly numbers, not an inspector marking. Keep in mind these early muskets did not have interchangeable parts so the only way to keep the parts that fit a particular musket together was to mark each piece. Sometimes even the associated bayonets were so marked.
Jim Burgess, 15th CVI

[Ron/The Old Reb]

Thanks Bob
I just learned something I didn't know.

[bilge water bob]

Bob,

The alpha-numeric numbers seen on your M1816 musket are assembly numbers, not an inspector marking. Keep in mind these early muskets did not have interchangeable parts so the only way to keep the parts that fit a particular musket together was to mark each piece. Sometimes even the associated bayonets were so marked.
Jim Burgess, 15th CVI
Thanks Jim!!!