Lot 1200: Civil War Burnside Transitional Second/Third Model Carbine

Approximately 1,500 Third Models were manufactured by the Burnside Rifle Company in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1862. They differ from the Second Models in that they have wood forearms, and retain a solid breechblock unlike the hinged breechblock in the Fourth and Fifth Models. This three-digit serial numbered example falls in the range of a second model, has the early "BRISTOL FIREARM CO." lock marking, and has been updated with the wood forearm. Blade front sight, notch and folding leaf rear sight (graduated for 100, 300, and 500 yards), "CAST STEEL 1861" marked on the top of the barrel, "BURNSIDE'S PATENT/MARCH 25TH, 1856" on the top of the action (partially obliterated), matching serial number "671" on the receiver, breechblock, and underneath the barrel (above a crossed out 669), and "G. P. FOSTER PAT./APRIL 10TH 1860" marked on the lever release latch. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good plus, retaining 50% plus attractive fire blue concentrated on the right side of the frame and breech lever, with the left side of the entire gun turned to a brown with scattered moderate pitting, and the lock turned to a smooth gray patina. Wood is fine with some light scratches, chips, and small cracks on the right and bottom left of the buttplate. Mechanically fine. Seldom encountered in any condition!