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U.S. SPRINGFIELD ALTERED SHARPS MODEL 1870 SECOND

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:875.00 USD Estimated At:1,750.00 - 2,500.00 USD
U.S. SPRINGFIELD ALTERED SHARPS MODEL 1870 SECOND

TYPE MILITARY RIFLE. Cal. 50-70 CF. S# 189. This scarce variation of the Sharps rifle was assembled at the Springfield Armory, ca. 1870 with newly fabricated parts as necessary for completion. The first type used a conversion percussion action. Second type rifles such as this one are based on the early Model 1874 style action with a lock plate having no provision for the pellet primer feed. Serial number range for this rare rifle is 1-300. Bbl. 35" with barleycorn front sight and graduated leaf rear sight. Barrel and action have matching serial numbers. Left side of receiver is marked "C. SHARPS PAT./SEPT. 12TH 1848". The full length walnut forearm is fastened by 2 bands in contrast to all other Sharps military rifles that used 3 bands. Straight grip walnut stock with steel musket buttplate. Original sling swivels. Left ear of stock has clear "ESA" cartouche referring to sub inspector Erskine S. Allin". UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: unmarked triangular blade bayonet Left side of shank is marked with a star. Bayonet does not fit properly, appears for use on a larger caliber percussion rifle. CONDITION: metal finish has faded to mottled gray showing scattered surface corrosion and spots of light pitting. Wood has an age darkened worn appearance with numerous scratches, dents and marks. Sound action. Bore is generally bright with sharp rifling showing small spots of darkness. (01-21455/DS). ANTIQUE. $1,750-2,500.