Suhl Model 1839 Muzzleloading Percussion Musket

Especially in the early days of the Civil War, the need by both armies for guns greatly outstripped the available supply. Federal and Confederate purchasing agents were sent to Europe to buy all manner of martial arms and equipment. Foreign governments and suppliers sold their surplus inventories, often at greatly inflated prices, and many of these muskets were shipped from Europe to meet armament needs in America.