May 28 & 29, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/28/2020
This is an extremely interesting gun. The brass bands are retained by pins as opposed to band springs, as commonly found on 1841 Mississippi rifles and are of cruder manufacture. The buttplate also appears to be of Confederate manufacture. The patchbox is most likely an original 1841, however the cutout in the stock is of a different than normal patter and appears to be have been done by hand. The lock plate is marked in script “Manton”. Unusual hammer of a more sporting style and appears to have been cast. The barrel appears to be unmarked, although we have not taken the barrel out of the stock. Appears to have had a brass front sight of the standard 1841 pattern on top of the barrel, which is now missing. Small brass bayonet adapter is attached to barrel about 4" from muzzle. Large diameter ramrod. Mr. Michel’s notes state: “Confederate copy of M1841 rifle. Lockplate marked in small English letters “Manton”. Patchbox inlet with hand drill marks. Two brass bands are fastened with iron nail passing through the stock. Barrel is unmarked. Brass saber bayonet adapter with small lug.” PROVENANCE: Ben Michel collection. CONDITION: Retains a pleasing patina overall with some light pitting. The barrel shows evidence of having been heated at the muzzle. Front sight is missing. Barrel patina looks like it may have been artificially applied. Brass has a nice mellow color to it. Stock has dings and handling marks, showing use and age. There is a crack opposite lock. Period repair to wood above the lock. All in all a very unique gun from a well respected collection of Confederate arms. GR
Caliber/Bore
.58 Percussion