February 5, 6, & 7, 2019 Field & Range Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/5/2019
This weapon was designed by Reuben Chaffee and General James Reece, patented February 1879. Tested for government use against the Hotchkiss and Lee designs, both both action rifles. The Chaffee-Reece went on to be issued for trial in the field where it tested last in all trials and was never recommended for adoption. With attached paperwork tracing this rifle back to the request of General Sherman to the Army museum to purchase this rifle. The Smithsonian inventory number is stamped into the stock. Features five round magazine in butt, blued iron furniture, two barrel bands, sling swivels, rear sight that resembles 1873 trapdoor sight. In 1884 Springfield Armory manufactured 753 of these rifles, mainly as a favor to General Reece; some were actually stamped "SAMPLE", although this example is not. Barrel has "VP" eagle head proof on left. Top of the frame is stamped "US SPRINGFIELD 1884". Left side of stock has Smithsonian Museum No. 229562, applied when the rifle entered the possession of the museum and rear of stock stamped "SWP 1884" in box for Sam Porter. Additionally, we have a 1973 letter from the Smithsonian stating "This Chaffee-Reece rifle was received at the museum February 12th, 1904, from the U.S. War Department described as U.S. Rifle Model 1882 Chaffee-Reece patent" and is signed by the curator. There is also a copy of a war department issue October 5th, 1882, giving the Caffee-Reece to the New Museum of Arms although it did not arrive until 1904. It was catalog number 229562 and there is a copy of the gun being logged in at the museum on February 8th, 1904. It was deaccessioned May 15th 1953 to Lieutenant Colonel B. Lewis. The paperwork documenting the above information is included in this lot. CONDITION: Finished with a commercial polish and remains in beautiful condition today. All original, 98% brilliant factory blue on barrel. Frame is a mix of high polish blue and silver. Stock has a few minor dings but is in excellent condition. Mirror bore. This beautiful rifle is one of the hardest to find and would be a prized addition to any Springfield collection. Condition-wise it is every bit as nice as the one featured in the book "Springfield Armory" by Ball. Truly a unique and unprecedented example with a wonderful family tree.