Lot 52: Fine and Rare Model 1861 US Percussion Rifle/ Musket Native American Decorated

Fine and Rare Model 1861 US Percussion Rifle/ Musket Native American Decorated, As converted to a carbine by an American Indian Warrior, .58 cal, this fascinating piece started life as a contract arm by J.T. Hodge and A.M. Button at the Trenton Locomotive and Machine Co. Trenton, NJ. Lock plate is marked 1865 behind hammer. After the civil war was over arms such as this were issued to units stationed at the frontier forts. In many cases, weapons were picked up on the battlefield by the Indians and modified by them to fit their needs, such as: shortening the barrel for use on horseback. This example has a 15 3/4" barrel. They also liked to decorate their pieces with tacks, and in this case, 70 star head attached to wood with square nails. The forend has been wrapped with tanned leather held in place by the stars as well as a wrapping of twine just behind the metal nose cap. Decoration such as these stars were available for Indian purchase or trade at frontier trading posts. Lock plate is stamped with the US eagle and US/ Trenton in front of hammer. Barrel stamped with the usual "V" "P" and eagle head, also on barrel are the letters "NJ" indicating that this piece was originally issued to a NJ unit. Unreadable inspectors cartouche on left side of stock at breech. This historic piece must have see much action, however, remains in relatively good condition. Action functions correctly. A truly historic piece which could tell us many stories.

Price Realized: $600

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