This is a beautiful example of an original Springfield Model 1868 Trapdoor Rifle manufactured circa 1869. This series of rifle was a follow-on to the Allin conversions and was the first true completely new manufactured metallic-rifle in the post civil war era. The barrel, barrel bands and trigger guard are all National Armory Bright finished with the oil quenched receiver and breechblock with a color case hardened lock plate. The top of the breechblock is stamped "1870/Eagle Head/Crossed Arrows/U.S.", the right side, breech end of the barrel and underside of the breechblock are stamped with a sub-inspector "H and B" respectively. The lock plate is marked with the Springfield Armory "Eagle/Shield/Crossed Arrows" over "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" and is dated "1863" towards the rear. The left side of the barrel and receiver are serial numbered: 41591. The barrel is fitted with the original barrel bands marked with a "U" and it has a fixed front sight and is missing the adjustable. It is fitted with the full length walnut stock with the buttplate stamped with a "U.S." on top of the heel and it is fitted with the correct two-piece trigger guard and trigger guard bow. The stock has four separate cartouches stamped on the left flat; two with the initials "ESA", one with "FG" and one with "TWL". It is complete with an original cleaning rod.

Excellent with 95% of the oil quenched finish on the receiver and breechblock, with 97% of the case colors on the lock plate. As noted the barrel and barrel bands all retain the "in the white" arsenal polished finish. The stock is also in excellent condition with the nice original dark brown color overall with minimal handling marks on the sides with clear, distinct cartouches on the side. As noted this rifle is missing the rear sight. A really nice high condition early 1870 trapdoor infantry rifle.