November 18, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/18/2020
U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Carbine with Custer Range serial number "16981" made in 1874. Blued round barrel with correct blade front sight connected with a pin. Rear graduated sight to 500 yards then leaf to 1200 yards. Case hardened breechblock with black look marked with "Model 1873 / (Eagle Head and Crossed Arrows)" over "US" which is obliterated out. Correct 2 position hammer with "U.S. Springfield 1873" next to Federal Eagle marked lock with "U.S." drilled out and filled with lead. Walnut correct short comb stock with correct steel "U.S." marked non-compartment buttplate. Correct style stacking swivel front barrel band. Inspector markings are illegible except first letter looks to be an "E". All traits are correct for Custer Era gun. Serial number on frame has been removed, but gun comes with letter from a Robert Burnett of the Westminster Police Department, Westminster California, stating that he conducted an acid etching test raising the serial number. Also comes with letter stating this gun was obtained from the Crow Nation in 1965. CONDITION: Overall poor as to be expected with guns used by Native Americans of the period with repaired stock and obliterated U.S. markings. Front stacking swivel could possibly be replaced as condition does not match condition of gun. Gun needs further research to confirm findings which is suggested in letter. Pitted bore with functioning mechanics. DLM
CORRECTION: Upon further research in the Government Archives, it has been discovered that this Springfield Model 1873 was issued to the 5th Cavalry in 1879.
Paperwork
Letter confirming serial number.