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RARE RICHMOND TYPE III RIFLE MUSKET DATED 1862 ON

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:3,000.00 USD Estimated At:6,000.00 - 9,000.00 USD
RARE RICHMOND TYPE III RIFLE MUSKET DATED 1862 ON

LOCK & BARREL. Cal. 58. NSN. A very fine Richmond rifle musket that appears to be all original and as assembled at the Richmond Armory in mid 1862. 40" Round barrel is octagon for the first 2 1/2" up from the breech. Bladed front sight also acts as a bayonet lug. Breech is proofed, "V" over "P" over an eagle. The "P" proof mark is often referred to as the broken "P" as seen on original Richmond musket barrels. The top of the barrel is dated 1862 in the unique font used by the Richmond Arsenal. Lock is correctly marked, "C.S. RICHMOND, VA" in front of the hammer and "1862" behind the hammer. Musket has an iron trigger guard, barrel bands, ramrod and sling swivels. The buttplate and nosecap are brass. Some of the external components on this gun are of Richmond Arsenal manufacture, the exceptions are the Harpers Ferry captured hammer, barrel bands and stock. These parts were some of the many captured at Harpers Ferry in April 1861 and transported back to Richmond, Virginia through Winchester, Virginia. All captured parts were utilized in the production of Richmond muskets until the inventory of Harpers Ferry parts was exhausted. The barrel bands appear to be original to the manufacture of the musket in 1862. The front 2 bands are Harpers Ferry captured pieces that show the "U" stamp aligned with the springs. As stated, the walnut stock is of Harpers Ferry production. The stock is carved on the left side of the butt with the soldier's name, "F.BECK". A quick search reveals that there were 10 enlisted men and officers named F. Beck in Confederate service. The right side of the stock has a stamp that reads, "E. WARD." that may be an early collection stamp. CONDITION: this musket appears original and as assembled in 1862 other than the ramrod. The lock is absolutely correct but may have been replaced as the patinas are not the same. All iron parts have a similar, lightly cleaned patina that has begun to turn a mellow gray. Brass has a rich mustard patina. All markings are easily discernible. The lock holds both full and half cock and its markings are strong. The stock shows expected dents and dings and the carved name is clear. (01-21069/BF). $6,000-9,000.