September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
This firearm has the distinction of being one of the first cartridge bolt actions issued by the US Government but proved so unpopular that only 316 were ever made. Despite its lack of production, it played an important part in American History as well. The famous Yellowstone Expedition of 1873 was deployed to survey a route for the Northern Pacific Railroad along the Yellowstone river through the Dakota and Montana territories. The commander of this group was Colonel David S. Stanley but his second in command was none other than George Armstrong Custer. Their survey took them through the land belonging to the Lakota Sioux whose famous leaders included Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse and Rain in the Face. It is ironic that Custer survived this expedition only to die at the hands of these three Sioux chiefs less than three years later. George's brother Thomas was among the Yellowstone group of 7th Cavalry officers to be killed at the Bighorn. This bolt action single shot carbine is stamped US SPRINGFIELD 1871 on left side of frame. Top of bolt has the Ward Burton 1871 patent legend. There is no visible sign of the ESA Erskine Allen cartouche on left side of walnut stock. These carbines were chambered for the 50-70 cartridge, featured one barrel band, a folding ladder rear sight and carbine metal butt plate. None bore any serial numbers. CONDITION: Very good. All metal is a grey patina with scattered salt and pepper texture and some age freckling. Stock is very good with usual assorted dings and bruises and one hair line in loading groove of stock. Does have some added finish. All legends are sharp. Action works fine. Bore is sharp with some abrasion and light pitting. This carbine played an important part in the American expansion west.
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