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Model 1841 Mississippi Perc. Rifle, by Whitney

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:875.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Model 1841 Mississippi Perc. Rifle, by Whitney
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U.S. Model 1841 ''Mississippi'' Percussion Muzzle-Loading Infantry Rifle, by Eli Whitney, with Bayonet, Scabbard and Leather Shoulder Sling, NVSN, .58 cal., 33'' round steel barrel marked ''US/GW/V'' at breech, integral brass front blade sight, folding leaf rear sight, integral bayonet lug on right side. Lockplate marked ''E. Whitney/US'' ahead of hammer and ''N. Haven/1855'' vertically behind. Steel ramrod with brass tip; two brass barrel bands retained by steel springs; brass triggerguard and sideplate; large brass hinged patchbox opens to reveal stock cavity for patches and spare percussion nipple; brass buttplate marked ''US'' and ''7'' on top tang. Originally browned barrel, blued screws, case hardened lockplate and bright finished brass parts. One-piece oil-finished walnut fullstock with oval inspector's cartouche and ''VGK'' on left side opposite lock. This appears to be one of the only 600 Model 1841 Rifles adapted for Long Range, having the new, shorter front barrel band, bayonet lug, long range rear sight, and dated ''1855'', though it retains the brass-tipped ramrod (see ''Flayderman's Guide to American Antique Firearms.'', p. 282.) Complete with Saber Type Bayonet having ribbed brass handle and guard, 22.5'' steel blade, and black leather scabbard with brass drag and leather frog. Condition is good to very good with a brownish patina to the barrel, pitting at breech and muzzle, muted case hardening to lockplate, and nice age patina to the brass. Stock is smooth and solid having minor losses at front band, good markings, the normal marks of military use and age, and perhaps a light coat of later varnish. Bayonet is good with etching to steel blade; scabbard is very good with likely a later coat of blacking; frog straps show age flexing but are intact. Sling shows age spotting and light wear but is complete and solid. Est.: $1,750-$2,750. (Antique)(Joe Poyer collection)