Designed by Erskine S. Allin, Master Armorer at Springfield Armory, to correct multiple problems encountered with the Model 1865 conversion rifles. Approximately 25,000 Civil War era muzzle loading rifle-muskets were converted at Springfield Armory to Allin's Model 1866 breech loading system and rechambered to .50-70 CF. The Model 1866 received its baptism by fire in the hands of U.S. troops in the Hayfield Fight and Wagon Box Fight, both a day apart on the 1st and 2nd of August 1867 along the Bozeman Trail, in which the severely outnumbered U.S. troops successfully held off several hundred Native American warriors. This example is dated "1864" on the lock and "1866" on the breech block. The left stock flat is marked with two boxed script cartouches "SWP" (Samuel W. Porter) and "ESA" (Erskine S. Allin). "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a US socket bayonet, period leather sling, and wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Exceptionally fine bright polish visible on the barrel, bands, buttplate, and trigger guard. The breech block retains half of the original black oil-quenched casehardened finish. The lock retains 85% slightly muted original case colors with some light surface pitting on the hammer. Stock is excellent with distinctive edges, light handling marks, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet is very fine. An absolutely stunning example of a second model Allin conversion rifle.