hello, I found a very old rifle, it is in 2 pieces, but there is a plate that has an eagle and the words springfield on it and US and on the barrel on a plate has J S. markings on the barrel is an x then a half moon the letter p d or p o. there is a U on a band that goes around the rifle barrel There is also a small marking next to the eagle to its left. its an oval with markings it as well. the barrel length form top to primer is 26" total length of rifle is 52 " therer is a trap door on the stock.
This was in my family many years and my great great uncle served in gettysburg his name is XXXXX XXXXX pennsylvania monument. Can you tell me if this type of rifle was used in gettysburg and is there value to it even though its broken in two? Family history stated this was gun found near my great great uncle on the field in gettysburg. thank-you
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Hi! My name is XXXXX XXXXX X am pleased to assist you. Could you provide an image for review and note overall condition, paying special attention to ANY visible flaws?
Hello Will,
I will send a picture over. The rifle is in 2 pieces, Missing the striker, BUT overall the rifle is very old but all the pieces are in tact, screws site, trap door, trigger etc. the break is a clean break, on the wood, easily can be attached with the right restorer. The markings have us stumped as i explained in details in the my first email to you.
I have listed all the markings in my question. This is a very old rifle and the markings on it I could not find in my research. I have more pictures if you needthem that has greater detail.hank-you Christine
Hello again
I really have about 8 more pictures that are close up and very clear. Is there a way to send thme to you so you can better see the rifle?
Thank-you
Chrissy
No need...you have a US Model 1884 Trapdoor Springfield in 45-70 caliber with ramrod bayonet which appears to be missing. It is NOT a Civil War weapon, sorry...normal retail is from $400 to $500 in that condition, pending demand. You can find replacement parts for it if you wish from a wide array of sources, but honestly it is not collector grade and I would suggest not bothering -- but if you want to, just let me know and I can direct you to someone who can do a full restoration if you wish. Best, Will
Life Member, Company of Military Historians
Hi Will
Thank-you for the infomation, Question on your answer, is this rifle worth in its present condition $400.00 to $500.00 dollars? I was unsure if that is what you were saying.
What would the markings be on this rifle that I explained to you in my first email? Are they onwers markings? for instance the x and the half moon and the letters PD or PO the JS on the barrel and the U on the band?
I would appreciate your opinion on that if you can.
Christine
That would be current retail, yes...some of your markings are just government stamps, like the "U" on the band, only intended to direct that the U be visible on the right side of the barrel for proper fit in assembly...there is a slight taper and if you put it on backwards, there would be some binding. The other marks are likewise proof marks or if carved, just a personal thing...will not add or detract from value. Best, Will
Experience: 30+ years experience in the trade