September 15, 16, & 17, 2026 Firearms & Militaria
The live portion of this session begins on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Lot #2183:
(A) MARTIALLY INSPECTED SPENCER MODEL 1860 CIVIL WAR ERA RIFLE
Arguably, the most publicized event regarding the Spencer Model 1860 rifle was when this model was obtained from the US Navy and on August 19th of 1863, was personally tested by Abraham Lincoln while near the White House when he fired a full tube of seven shots, nearly all near the bullseye. This test board now rests in the Illinois Military Museum in Springfield while the rifle is housed in the Smithsonian Institute. It is also noted that Spencer rifles were carried at Gettysburg by four units of the Michigan Cavalry led by George Custer where they repelled the Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart's cavalry attack on July 3rd. All standard features on this example to include the three barrel bands, a pinned blade on base front sight, folding ladder rear sight, walnut stock with metal buttplate and loading tube, along with matching full length forearm and sling swivels; front is missing swivel. The top of the receiver chamber has the 1860 Spencer legend. There is a bit of marring at the rear barrel breech but a sub inspector J is readable. CONDITION: Very good. The barrel has drifted to a smooth patina. All of the case colors have faded grey. Stock is very good and solid with a couple of minor hairlines at butt plate. The loading tube does not lock in place. Mechanically sound with a bright bold bore showing some minor abrasion. A nice example of a very historic Spencer rifle.