September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/5/2023
Produced in the first quarter of 1875, this correctly configured trapdoor carbine, serial number 43126, falls within the accepted range of known carbines that could have been issued to Custer's 7th Cavalry prior to the infamous 1876 Battle of Little Big Horn. Among the known serial numbers listed by John S. du Monte in "Custer Battle Guns" is 43617, approximately 400 numbers off of this example, which was turned in by Capt. Henry Jackson. This carbine is fit with a correctly unproofed 22" round barrel chambered in .45-70 with blade front sight and carbine rear. Standard oil quenched high arch breech block marked "MODEL / 1873" over crossed arrows, an eagle head, and "US" markings. The lock is marked with federal eagle, "U.S. / SPRINGFIELD / 1873" stampings, and 2-click tumbler. Walnut stock is a field replacement without tool compartment and bears no cartouche or firing proof. Standard iron mounts including barrel band with stacking swivel, 2-piece trigger guard, saddle ring, and bar, and "US" marked carbine butt plate. CONDITION: Very good. Metal components have developed mottled brown gray patina with cleaned oxidation spots. Stock has a rich, age-darkened appearance with some expected bumps, in addition to a minor split ahead of the lock plate. Strong bore with some black powder pitting. Good mechanics.