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Civil War Sharps New Model 1859 Perc. Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:2,500.00 USD
Civil War Sharps New Model 1859 Perc. Rifle
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Civil War Sharps New Model 1859 ''Straight Breech'' Breechloading Percussion Rifle, likely issued to Berdan's U.S. Sharpshooters, #56715, .52 cal., 30'' round barrel with block-blade front (doubles as bayonet lug) and Lawrence adjustable-leaf rear sights, marked with maker's name/address, and ''New Model 1859'' ahead of breech, ''OWA'' (U.S. Army inspector O.W. Ainsworth) at left breech; receiver has automatic pellet primer at top, operating lever to drop breech open for loading/extraction, Sharps markings/patent dates on both sides, Lawrence on right, ser. no. on top tang; steel furniture includes three spring-retained barrel bands (middle with sling swivel), nosecap, right-side patchboox opening to trap for patches/spare parts, sling swivel at belly, curved buttplate; two-piece oil-finished walnut stocks. Mfg'd ca. 1859-66, originally with blued barrel and case hardened remainder of metal. Condition is very good, the barrel having a bluish patina with scattered light erosion, the other metal surfaces being smooth gunmetal gray with occasional light discoloration, sharp edges and markings. Stocks are sound and smooth with dings/scrapes, scattered discoloration, and no inspector's cartouche. Double set triggers. Action is strong and smooth; bore shines with light etching toward muzzle and excellent rifling. In 1862 2,000 New Model 1859 rifles were purchased and issued to Col. Hiram Berdan's famed 1st and 2nd Regiments of U.S. Sharpshooters; all were in this serial range and most had double set triggers as does this one. Est.: $5,000-$10,000. (Antique)(Doug Beneck collection)