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OUTSTANDING SPRINGFIELD 1875 TYPE III OFFICERS

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:7,500.00 USD Estimated At:15,000.00 - 25,000.00 USD
OUTSTANDING SPRINGFIELD 1875 TYPE III OFFICERS
MODEL US TRAPDOOR RIFLE. Cal. 45-70. NSN. A total of 477 officers model rifles were produced between 1875-85. Most of these were purchased by officers with about 100 issued to officers in militia & guard units. The remainder were sold to commercial outlets after the adoption of the Krag rifle. Only 100 type III rifles were mfg. in 1885. Type III rifles differ from earlier styles by their stock type which has a 5/8" longer forearm tip. The nickel finished pewter nosecap is squared at the front rather than rounded, still having a long floral finial & engraving. Single band fastened short comb stock has checkered forearm & wrist with a checkered detachable wood pistol grip. Left ear of stock has a clear 1885 dated "SWP" cartouche. Bbl. & receiver finish is blued. Model 1879 style action. 1873 dated low arch breech block with Springfield marked lock. Breech block, top tang, lock, hammer & trigger guard have case colored finish. These parts along with the front receiver ring, bbl. band & buttplate have moderate coverage of scroll hand engraving with straight lined borders. Bbl. is 26" round. Beech front sight with gold washed folding ring, with model 1879 rear sight & Springfield vernier tang sight. Hardwood cleaning rod with brass fittings is held by a single iron band. WEIGHT: 8 lbs, 2.4 oz. CONDITION: exceptional and very fine all original rifle. Bbl., frame & fittings retain over 95% original blue obtaining a slightly plum cast with age. Lock, breech block, trigger guard & tang retain over 80% lightly muted case colors. Original wood finish shows scattered scratches, marks & small dents. Lock area shows small cracks & chips. Mechanics are fine. Exceptionally nice bright bore retaining strong rifling. PROVENANCE: From the estate collection of Thomas J. Mulligan. (01-23378/DS). ANTIQUE. $15,000-25,000.