April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2023
With a production total of only 477 rifles, the Model 1875 Officers Rifle is one of the rarest arms produced by Springfield Armory. These fine, well fit, and attractively embellished sporting rifles were available only to military officers as private purchases. As is standard, this example is built with a 26" "V / P" over eagle head proofed barrel chambered in .45-70 with dovetailed globe front sight and "R" marked rifle rear sight. All Model 1875 rifles were arsenal fitted with peep sights, this rifle sporting a replacement staff pattern mid-range sight. Built on a standard style unserialized trapdoor action with low arch breech block marked "U.S. / MODEL / 1873" and tasteful foliate scroll engraved on the bridge, breech block, and tang. The "U.S / SPRINGFIELD" and federal eagle stamped lock is also embellished with further foliate engraving. Single set trigger. The fore and aft checkered walnut sporting stock is marked on the wrist with the correct encircled "P" firing proof. Scroll decorated mounts include a nickel plated nose cap, single barrel band, carbine style trigger guard, and cadet buttplate. Complete with a hickory wiping rod mounted via a replacement ferrule. CONDITION: Very good showing period use. Metal components exhibit an honest plum gray patina with significant portions of nickel plating retained on the nose cap. Stock is very good showing scattered age consistent minor bruises and marks, in addition to an area of filler around the peep sight. Strong bore with some areas of older corrosion. Crisp mechanics with tight lock up. An extremely rare and historic Springfield rifle.
Caliber/Bore
.45-70 Government