Lot 234: Civil War J. P. Moore's Sons Short Enfield Pattern Rifle

This rifle is one of only approximately 999 procured by the U.S. government in 1862 and is featured as part of the "Moore 'Short Enfield' Rifle" section on pages 414-417 of "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume III" by George Moller and has his small collection marking by the toe. These rifles were built in New York by John P. Moore's Sons to fulfill U.S. government contracts early in the Civil War and are desirable "American Enfields." This rifle has a "barleycorn" style blade front sight, a sword bayonet lug on the right, notch and folding ladder rear sight, "ETU" marking near the breech, "67" and/or "30" marked on most of the components, two barrel bands, "1861" and eagle and "M" marked shield maker's mark on the lock, a black leather sling fitted to the swivels on the upper barrel band and tail of the trigger guard, and "16" on the left stock flat. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Good with mostly gray and brown patina on the iron, mild pitting at the breech, aged patina on the brass furniture, and mild overall wear. The refinished stock is also good and has mild scratches and dings, several thin cracks, a few splotches of paint, and minor flakes. Mechanically fine. A rare "American Enfield" that will add depth and interest to any Civil War collection.