Tryon U.S. Model 1841 “Mississippi” Rifle / SOLD

Description

Tryon U.S. Model 1841 “Mississippi” Rifle

1844 Dated, Attributed to the 41st Virginia Infantry, Army of Northern Virginia

An exceptional and historically important U.S. Model 1841 percussion rifle, .54 caliber, manufactured by Tryon of Philadelphia and lock plate dated 1844, the first year of production. This rifle is directly associated with the 41st Virginia Infantry, 4th Division, Army of Northern Virginia, under the command of General William Mahone, a unit that fought with distinction at Gettysburg and throughout the Eastern campaigns.

The rifle shows an arsenal barrel alteration, with the breech turned to accept a socket bayonet, illustrating its adaptation for extended service. Markings include “263” on the butt plate and a deeply stamped “41” beneath the barrel tang, signifying regimental alignment. Inside the oval patch box, the numbers “4” and “41” are painted, consistent with issue to the 41st Regiment, 4th Division according to John Singleton, the previous owner and author on the book on Confederate used Mississippi rifles.

The lock plate and breech exhibit moderate pitting from hard field service, while the balance of the barrel and mountings have a uniform patina, untouched and honest. The brass furniture, including the patch box and buttplate, remains sound and well fit to the stock.

The 41st Virginia Infantry served under Mahone’s Brigade and fought in many of the Army of Northern Virginia’s hardest battles. At Gettysburg, Mahone’s men were heavily engaged during the fighting on July 2, 1863. Issued Mississippi rifles such as this were prized by Confederate soldiers for their rugged construction and accuracy.

This rifle comes from the Thomas Singleton collection, a provenance well-regarded among Civil War arms collectors. Its early date, regimental markings, and Gettysburg connection make it a museum-worthy Confederate-used Mississippi rifle of historical importance.

Inventory Number: RIF 271