Model 1863 Springfield Rifle-Musket
Attributed to a Soldier of the 138th Pennsylvania Infantry / SOLD

$0.00

Out of stock

SKU: RIF 371 Category:

Description

Model 1863 Springfield Rifle-Musket
Attributed to a Soldier of the 138th Pennsylvania Infantry 

 

A fine Civil War-era Model 1863 Springfield Rifle-Musket dated 1864 and attributed to service with a member of the 138th Pennsylvania Infantry. This attractive rifle-musket remains in solid, original condition and exhibits the honest wear expected of a weapon that saw active military service during the war.  

 

This example is the desirable Type II Model 1863 configuration, featuring band-retaining springs rather than barrel band screw retainers. The lockplate is clearly marked with the federal eagle and “U.S. Springfield” forward of the hammer, while the rear of the lock is dated 1864. The eagle on the bolster remains distinct and well defined.  

 

The steel components retain much of their original armory-bright appearance, an increasingly scarce feature on Civil War rifle-muskets. Minor percussion cap erosion and pitting are present at the breech area from period use, but overall the metal surfaces remain exceptionally pleasing. All three barrel bands are correctly stamped with the letter “U” and remain properly aligned with their retaining springs.  

 

The buttplate tang retains a clear “U.S.” stamp and exhibits only scattered areas of age patina. The rear sight remains intact, as do both sling swivels. The ramrod is a correct Model 1855/1861/1863 tulip-head type and remains present. It displays a darker gray patina than the balance of the metal components, but complements the musket well.  

 

The walnut stock exhibits an attractive light golden-brown tone and remains in very good condition overall. A clear inspector’s cartouche is visible on the left side of the stock above the trigger guard. The stock displays a number of period ownership and service markings, including a carved “W” on the right side of the buttstock near the buttplate and the initials “WOR” carved into the left side near the buttplate. Additionally, the initials “FAH” are carved into the underside of the stock just forward of the trigger guard. A small stamped “A” is present on the forward tang of the trigger guard.  

 

Mechanically, the musket remains in full working order. The lock functions properly and holds securely at both half-cock and full-cock positions. The bore retains visible rifling with honest wear and no significant pitting, a notable condition feature for a rifle-musket of this period.  

 

The 138th Pennsylvania Infantry served with distinction in the Army of the Potomac, participating in major campaigns and battles throughout the latter half of the Civil War. Firearms with Pennsylvania associations remain especially desirable to collectors, particularly those with identified regimental connections.  

 

This is a well-preserved and highly appealing Model 1863 Springfield Rifle-Musket that combines strong markings, original components, excellent mechanical function, and Pennsylvania Civil War history. 

 

Inventory Number: RIF 371

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “Model 1863 Springfield Rifle-Musket
Attributed to a Soldier of the 138th Pennsylvania Infantry / SOLD”

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *