April 27-30, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/27/2021
Only 143 Model 1875 Lee rifles were produced by Springfield Armory with their unique Martini-style vertical action, making them one of the rarest Springfield rifles made. This exemplary example is fitted with the standard blued 32 - 5/8" barrel chambered for .45-70. "R" marked 1873 Trapdoor style rear sight and bayonet lug front. Stock mounted with 2 iron bands and an unusual script "US" marked butt plate. Script "ESA" oval cartouche found on left of stock and circle "P" proof on wrist. Tang faintly marked "U.S. / PAT.MAR.16.1875." Accompanied by a period leather sling. CONDITION: Excellent. Retains vast majority of original blued finish with some light thinning, muzzle wear, and losses on butt plate and trigger guard. Stock very good with a few scattered marks and very crisp stamps. Bright bore with crisp rifling. Functions appropriately when worked by hand. Rifle was not disassembled to check internal serial numbers due to its high condition. It would be a challenge to beat this incredibly rare US military rifle! BAS