The Fayetteville rifles were copies of the U.S. Harpers Ferry Model 1855 rifle manufactured with machinery captured from the U.S. arsenals at Harpers Ferry, Virginia, and Fayetteville, North Carolina. An estimated 8,000-9,000 of these well-made rifles were manufactured between 1862-1865. With the fledgling Confederacy plagued by a shortage of arms, and even less capable of weapons manufacturing, the capture of a federal armory was a godsend. The Virginia Secession Convention had instructed Robert E. Lee, as a top priority, to move the valuable rifle and musket-producing machinery from northern Virginia safely into the interior. Lee assigned the task to Stonewall Jackson on April 27 in his first orders to his new subordinate, “It is desired that you expedite the transfer,” he said. Within 2 weeks, the ever efficient Jackson had completed the task. Features a blade front sight, bayonet lug on the right, blued rear sight with flip-up leafs graduated up to 500 yards, iron ramrod with tulip head, iron forend cap, brass trigger guard, buttplate, and flat barrel bands secured by band springs. In addition to the "1863" date behind the hammer, the lock plate is stamped with an eagle and shield above "C.S.A." followed by "FAYETTEVILLE". "V/P/eagle head" proofs stamped on the left quarter of the breech, with an "1863" date on top of the breech, with the "3" partly visible. The two barrel bands are stamped "U" facing the band springs. The heel of the buttplate is stamped "CSA". Unidentified period initials "A.W.S" carved in fancy script in the left stock flat and filled in with red. Provenance: The Fredrick Goldbecker Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very good as Confederate used, with an untouched attic fresh look, exhibits smooth brown patina on the barrel with some characteristic light flash pitting, the lock showing a mix of smooth gray and brown patina, with defined proofs and lock markings. Brass exhibits an attractive golden aged patina. Stock is also very good with defined edges, with some scattered light scratches and dents, some minor chipping beneath the lock, a few minor hairline cracks ahead of the buttplate tang, and defined period carved initials. Mechanically fine. This Confederate Fayetteville Armory rifle would make a fine addition to any Civil War arms collection!