Reportedly 273,265 Springfield Model 1863 Type I rifle-muskets were manufactured c. 1863-1864 with the screw fastened barrel bands. Springfield Model 1863 rifle-muskets are described on pages 324-327 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume III", with this exact rifle photographed on page 324. These rifles are significant in the history of U.S. martial arms, as they armed Union troops and saw widespread use in the latter years of the Civil War. Solid blade front and 500 yard two-leaf rear sight. Casehardened 1863 dated "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" marked lock. Armory bright 1863 dated barrel, ramrod, and "US" marked buttplate. Blued bands, rear sight, trigger, and trigger guard. The left stock flat is marked with two circled script cartouches including "ESA" (Erskine S. Allin). "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a US socket bayonet, leather sling, and wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very fine, bright polish with some scattered light freckling and dulling, 85% bright original blue finish on barrel bands and trigger guard with some patches of light pitting, and 75% plus vivid original case colors on the lock. Stock is also excellent with defined edges, some light scratches and dents, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet is very fine with some scattered patches of light pitting.