Proof Mark (V inside Circle) Assistance!

[S&WOwner]

FIREARM: Swiss 1842 Percussion Musket

MARK: V in Circle



LOCATION: Top of Barrel and left side of stock (on wood).

NOTE: Found 6 other references (1895 Spanish Mauser, etc.) to "V" inside of circle - all asking what it is and getting no answer.

 

[Edarnold]

A wild guess: I believe that the Cantons of the Swiss Federation were responsible for the arming and upkeep of the militia in their territory. I think I've seen mention of markings on older arms indicating which canton they belonged to. In the case of your rifle that would indicate the cantons of Vaud or Valais.
If you check this out on the SwissRifles forum you will get a definitive answer.

 

[S&WOwner]

Thanks Edarnold for your suggestion - sounds like a plan.