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RARE MERRILL ALTERATION OF A US M1841 MISSISSIPPI

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:2,500.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD
RARE MERRILL ALTERATION OF A US M1841 MISSISSIPPI
RIFLE. Cal. 54. NSN. Bbl. 33". This rare gun is an M1841 Mississippi rifle with a Merrill alteration done in 1861 or 1862. There were a total quantity of 100 alterations to M1841 rifles done by James H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland. The alteration replaced the original tang/breech plug with the Merrill breech loading mechanism. Round barrel with brass bladed front sight and fixed, folding rear sight. The breech is marked "WW PM V / P / (eagle head)". The lock is marked "(eagle)" over "US" in front of the hammer, and "HARPERS FERRY 1848" to the rear of the hammer. Brass trigger guard, patchbox, buttplate, side plate, and barrel bands. Iron ramrod and sling swivels. The Merrill alteration is stamped at the top "JAS. H. MERRILL BALTO. PATENTED JULY 1858.". Stock has inspectors' marks in back of the side plate. CONDITION: barrel, lock, and alteration have medium gray patinas. Brass has a pleasing mustard patina. Lock holds both full & half cock, and alteration functions very well. The stock has a noticeable, but very well done, repaired area surrounding the wrist. Excellent bore. (01-23175/BF). ANTIQUE. $5,000-8,000.