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Harpers Ferry Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:600.00 USD
Harpers Ferry Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle
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Mexican War Era U.S. Model 1841 ''Mississippi'' Percussion Rifle, by Harpers Ferry Armory, with leather sling and wooden tompion, NVSN, .54 cal., 33'' round barrel with simple brass-blade front and notched rear sights, marked ''US/SM/VP'' at breech and ''1850'' on top tang; beveled lockplate is marked with a spread-wing eagle clutching olive branches over ''US'' ahead of hammer, and ''Harpers/Ferry/1849'' vertically behind; brass furniture includes two spring-retained barrel bands (top of the double-strap type with attached sling swivel), serpentine sideplate, two-piece trigger guard having a long rear tang, large plain patchbox opening to a trap for patches and spare parts (extra nipple is present), and buttplate marked ''US'' at top screw; one-piece oil-finished walnut fullstock having faint ''WAT'' (William A. Thornton) inspector's initials within an oval cartouche opposite the lock, and correct early brass-tipped tulip-head steel ramrod. Mfg'd ca. 1850, originally with browned barrel, case hardened lock, blued screws, ''bright'' brass, and oil-stained stock. Condition is very good retaining little original finish, the barrel having a brownish patina mixed with light age etching, the balance of the steel being gunmetal gray, the brass an aged tone (nicks to buttplate). Stock is solid showing the expected light marks of age and military use. All metal edges and markings are clear; action is strong and smooth; condition of bore is unknown as tompion cannot be easily removed. Patent leather sling shows its age with minor flaking but is sound and complete; tompion is fine. Est.: $1,200-$1,800. (Antique)