#17 • Springfield Armory Model 1816/1827 Percussion Conversion Musket

Part of March 2025 Firepower Auction (timed auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $600.00

Status: Sold

Category: Firearms

Manufacturer: Springfield Armory Type: Black Powder Musket Model: 1827 Caliber: 69 Barrel Length: 42" Optics: N/A ATF Form 4473 Required: No Log: N/A S/N: N/A Ref #: N/A Notes: The Springfield Model 1827 is a transitional flintlock-to-percussion conversion musket, originally produced as a Model 1816 at the U.S. Springfield Armory before being modified to the percussion ignition system. The Model 1816 was the standard-issue infantry musket for the U.S. military in the early 19th century, widely used during the Seminole Wars and into the Mexican-American War. By the 1820s, advancements in firearms technology led to modifications, and many Model 1816 muskets—including this example—were later converted to percussion, extending their service life into the mid-19th century. These muskets saw continued use during the American Civil War, particularly with state militias and Confederate forces, as well as in earlier conflicts such as the Black Hawk War and the Texas Revolution. This example features a 42-inch smoothbore barrel, consistent with standard infantry muskets of the period, and is chambered for a .69 caliber ball. The percussion conversion replaces the original flintlock mechanism with a bolted or drum-style percussion system, improving ignition reliability in adverse weather conditions. The lockplate retains Springfield Armory markings, and the full-length walnut stock is secured by three barrel bands. The musket is fitted with a front brass blade sight and a simple notched rear sight, as was common for smoothbore service arms of the era. Weighing approximately 9.5 to 10 pounds, it follows the standard dimensions of early U.S. military long arms, designed for bayonet use in massed infantry tactics. This musket exhibits age-related wear throughout, including surface rust on the barrel, pitting on the lockplate, and scratches on the stock, consistent with prolonged service. The action remains functional but stiff, and further inspection is recommended to assess mechanical condition. Notably, the initials "HR" are carved into the buttstock—a historical personalization likely added by a soldier or subsequent owner—offering a glimpse into its past use. As a converted Model 1816, this firearm reflects a key period of transition in U.S. military weaponry, bridging early flintlock designs with the more reliable percussion system that would dominate the mid-19th century. Please see the photographs for more details, or contact us at 907-570-7050 or email us at FFL@alaskapremierauctions.com / Admin@alaskapremierauctions.com to schedule an in-person preview of the firearm. ***All federal firearm background checks are conducted in-house, please allow pick-up times to reflect paperwork processing time (approx. 30-45 minutes).