GUN SPRING 2018
The live portion of this session begins on Wednesday, March 21, 2018.
EXTREMELY RARE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CONFEDERATE CONTRACT 50 CALIBER MENDENHALL, JONES & GARDNER RIFLE.MJ & GRIFLE8550W/BAYONETCal. 50. John Murphy and Howard Madaus in their definitive 1996 text Confederate Rifles & Muskets describe this rare 1862 contract prior to the change to 577 caliber, September 22, 1862. It is thought that less than 100 "Type I" rifles were made. This rifle is in excellent condition for a Confederate arm, still exhibiting raised grain to the stock and no external markings other than the SN "85" stamped in wood opposite lock. This gun is accompanied by well fitting Raleigh-style brass hilted saber bayonet. These Type I rifles were made at the Cedar Hill Foundry and Machine Shop located on Alamance Creek, eleven miles east of Greensboro, NC. Many Type I guns were rejected and few examples are known. SN 66 is shown in the Murphy text fully inspected and maker marked. Other than markings, these guns have identical configuration with 33" seven land and groove rifling unique to these early contract rifles. This is a beautiful gun that most likely cannot be upgraded. CONDITION: Very fine overall, appears orig and matching with SNs internally matching "85" on stock. Bbl is still bright in protected areas with smooth dark iron patina overall. Lock is a smooth grey. Brass mounts are smooth, medium mustard patina. Stock is sound and solid with good color, areas of raised grain, sharp edges with small dings, dents and scratches. Accompanying Confederate bayonet fits gun well with grey 21-1/2" blade with old sharpening. Mechanically fine with crisp rifling in pitted bore. 52872-2 JS (15,000-20,000)