Round smoothbore steel barrel with bayonet lug mounted on top, near muzzle. Flintlock mechanism with lockplate measuring 6-1/4" and marked "Charleville" in center and stamped with a crown over "D". Typical French Model 1766 steel furniture, button-tipped ramrod and sling swivels. Full length walnut stock, left side stamped with "D" inspection mark, right side carved with initials "C+N", thought to be associated with American use. About 37,000 long arms, many of them being Model 1766 muskets, arrived from France in the Spring of 1777 into Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This French acknowledgement of support was a direct result of the Continental victory at the Battle of Saratoga in October 1777. For a similar example, see page 93, plate 43 MM of "Battle Weapons of the American Revolution" by George C. Neumann. Excellent condition; barrel retains a dark, even brown patina with some light pitting near breech. Lock is probably one of the finest in existence, with only some corrosion in pan and marks on frizzen face, the lock is pristine with excellent markings, very crisp edges and an even brown patina, matching that of the barrel. Steel furniture has a heavy brown patina, some pitting on buttplate and sideplate. Stock excellent with scattered dents and marks from use, one minor chip forward of lock. Serial Number-NSN; Manufacturer-Charleville; Model-1762; Caliber-.72 Bore; Barrel Length-44-3/4"; FFL Status-Antique;