Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1365c:
Description
The Springfield Model 1873 is an iconic arm of the U.S. Army after the American Civil War. It was the transition piece, marking the shift from muzzle-loading muskets to cartridge firing rifles. The Model 1873 was the Army’s standard issue rifle during the Indian Wars of the 1870s and 1880s. The rifle also saw service in the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. This particular rifle has a 32 5/8 -inch, rifled barrel, which fired a .45-70 cartridge. There is a fixed front sight and the rear site is missing. The breech block (trapdoor) is marked with “US / Model / 1873” and the serial number is prominent on the receiver. The lock plate displays the “spread eagle” motif and the faded inscription “US / Springfield”. The metal butt plate bears the “US” inscription. Additional proof markings are present on the barrel, near the breech and the barrel bands display the directional “U” stamping. The one-piece, walnut stock shows handling and storage wear, along with a minor chip near the rear barrel band. The metal has been recoated with a black finish. Please see photos for overall condition. The bore shows oxidation, and the rifling is in fair condition. The hammer and trigger actions are smooth and tight. The overall length of the rifle is 52-inches.
S/N: 444393
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