This rare rifle of the type associated with Confederate sharpshooters bears a silver presentation prize plaque to the left side of the butt to the Wigan Volunteer Rifles dated 1860. With blued round barrel marked “WHITWORTH PATENT” referring to the famous hexagonal rifling, struck with Birmingham proof marks, and fitted with adjustable blade front sight and rear ladder sight. The side lock with safety catch and signed “WHITWORTH” and with crowned “W” trademark. The lock and furniture engraved with double border lines. Figured walnut straight hand three quarter length stock with checkered grip and forearm. In original oak case blocked out for the rifle and accessories, the lid with printed Whitworth Rifle Company trade label. Whitworth rifles were highly regarded and were extremely accurate, especially when compared to a standard .577 Enfield rifle which could only manage a 25 inch group at 500 yards as opposed to the Whitworth which could produce a tight 4 1/2 inch group at the same distance. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection