Lot 4171: Belgian Falisse & Trapmann Copy of a Spencer Saddle Ring Carbine

OC - FINE- all original parts; over 30% original finish, sharp lettering, numerals and design on metal and wood; minor marks in wood.

WW - WOOD IS WORSE FOR THE PERCENT FINISH RATING GIVEN

Spencer rifles and carbines were popular with French Troops during 1870-71 Franco-Prussian War, with shipping records showing thousands of them being acquired for use. The Spencer became so popular that the private manufacturer Falisse & Trapmann of Liege, Belgium manufactured copies in 1873-1874 from a mixture of surplus and new-made parts. The Falisse & Trapmann "FT" proofs are seen on various parts throughout. The company produced less than 1,000 carbines in 1873, believed to be exclusively for a Brazilian contract. The normal "UNION ARMORIERE BELGE/LIEGE" marking on top of the receiver and makers cartouche on the right of the buttstock are absent. "56/52/1866" is hand carved in the left side of the buttstock.