May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
As most collectors know, the Model 1875 rifle was made at Springfield for purchase by commissioned officers. A total of 477 were made between 1875 until 1885, divided into three series or types. The second series was made from 1877-1881, making this is a rare last year second series as it is dated 1881 on the frame where you would normally find the serial number. In addition, on the left side of the stock, is a cartouche with the letters SWP in script for Sam Porterwith the date of 1881. The only other examples that had a date were on the third series in 1885. This late 2nd model features the desirable checkered pistol grip which was detachable. This incredible example features the blued round sporting barrel with the folding beech type front sight and the R stamped 1879 military style barrel mounted rear sight. In addition, rifle sports the high polish blue wrist mounted tang sight. The proof P in circle at base of stock has been moved rearward toward the butt plate so as not to be covered by the pistol grip. The forearm is factory checkered as is the wrist and the pistol grip. There is the usual engraved fancy pewter forearm tip as well. There is further engraving on the top tang of butt plate with US stamp. The trigger guard is engraved as is the blued upper tang, the breech block, the forward top of breech, the hammer, the breech block release lever and the side plate which is stamped US SPRINGFIELD. The hand engraving is a mixture of scroll, leaves, decorative curved lines and some punch dot back ground. The original oak cleaning rod is held to the barrel by a single high polish blued ferrule. Beautiful bone case colors are seen on the trigger guard, the barrel band which is held in place by a fire blue spring, the side plate, hammer, the action and buttplate. The screws and some small parts are fire blue. The stock is fairly straight grained American walnut. CONDITION: Excellent. This specimen has survived in stellar condition retaining approximately 70% case colors to a dull grey on balance. The butt plate has some pattern but mostly dull grey. The barrel band still shows pattern. The barrel retains virtually all of its factory blue with minute handling marks. The bright fire blue on screws and small parts is mostly present, including the tang sight. The stock is in superb condition showing a few minor impressions, mostly near the SWP cartouche. The action is crisp. The bore is bright. This rare rifle has it all. It is one of only a handful of 1881 dated examples with a pistol grip and is rguably, one of the most handsome and rare military sporting rifles ever made.
Model
1875 Officer's Model