December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/12/2024
Available for private purchase only to officers, just 477 of the nicely finished sporting style Model 1875 rifles were produced by Springfield between 1875 and 1885. This example was likely produced around 1877 as production transitioned from first to second type rifles, showcasing both early 1873 style features and second style engraving. Rifle is fitted with a 26" barrel bearing standard proofs at the breech. Beech type front sight, the folding ring no longer present, and 1873 style rear sight. As is standard for these rifles, a folding Vernier aperture sight is also mounted to the wrist. Correctly unnumbered receiver with foliate scroll engraving. Engraved high arch breech block marked "MODEL / 1873" over an eagle head, crossed arrows, and "US". The foliate scroll engraving continues onto the "U.S. / SPRINGFIELD" lockplate and hammer. Action has 2-click tumbler and single set trigger. Half length stock of nicer than standard figure features fore and aft checkering, now heavily worn, as well as an engraved white metal nose cap, lightly engraved 2-piece trigger guard, and engraved "US" marked butt plate without tool trap. Some traces of red paint retained in the protected areas of the stock, possibly indicating Native American capture and usage. A replacement hickory wiping rod is included and is retained to the barrel by a single ferrule. CONDITION: Good, showing heavy usage. Metal has faded to a worn gray patina throughout with scattered dings. Stock shows heavy wear and some cleaning, the wrist checkering faint and the forend checking largely gone. Engraving on the soft white metal nose cap is likewise worn and very faint. A repaired split present on the left flat. Heavily frosted bore with visible rifling. Breech block lock is somewhat loose. Otherwise mechanically in order at the time of cataloging, including the set trigger. An honest, very scarce and desirable Indian Wars era rifle that has stories to tell.