July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
Indian Wars era Model 1873 trapdoor carbine manufactured by Springfield Armory circa 1876. 22" round barrel chambered for .45-70. No proofs visible. Carbine front sight and first issue carbine rear sight. High arch breech block with no visible markings. Lockplate marked with Federal eagle and "U.S. / SPRINGFIELD / 1873". Thick wrist stock walnut stock with a "U" marked barrel band, 2-piece trigger guard, saddle ring bar with no ring, and "US" marked butt plate. No cartouche or firing proof visible, as is commonly seen on these early carbines with field upgraded stocks. The stock features "S.P.F. C 76" marking near the heel on the left side, indicating ownership by the Pennsylvania State Police Force, Troop C. Originally organized in 1905, the State Police purchased 220 trapdoor carbines in 1906 and another 220 in 1909 from the government to arm their troopers. Troop C was originally based in Reading and later moved to Pottstown in 1909, before returning to Reading in 1924. CONDITION: Good. Significant portions of reapplied blued finish is retained with some areas thinning to brown including the barrel. Stock has some superficial impressions but retains crisp markings. Very good lightly frosted bore displaying crisp rifling. Mechanically fine. A neat carbine with history. BAS