Beschreibung:

57.5" x 11.25" x 8" pine shipping crate. One end is marked "Dr. Mofit," the other marked "Dr. Mofit, Gun Metal Lab." Obverse marked "Keep out / From: Harpers Ferry Arsenal / Harpers Ferry, VA / To: Dr. Campbell Mofit / Pikesville Arsenal / Gun Metal Laboratory / Pikesville, MD, / U.S. Military / Experimental Model 1841 Rifled Musket / by Authority of Jefferson Davis / U.S. Secretary of War;" reverse marked similarly with the addition of "U.S." Lacks lid. The size of the crate and the period in which Davis served as Secretary of War (1853-57) suggests it was used to ship an early version of the Model 1842 rifled musket with the new long range sight. The original cut nails that once held the sides of this crate together deteriorated and were replaced by wire nails many years ago. Condition: Good; stenciling sharp and legible, normal age toning and scuffs from service wear.