Reportedly 4,500 of these so called "Transitional Model 1873/1879" carbines were manufactured between 1877-1878. This outstanding example is manufactured within the correct pre-100,000 serial number range with the low-arch breechblock, thin receiver, standard blade front sight, the continuous curve notch and folding ladder rear sight graduated to 1,200 yards on the ladder and marked "C" on the left of the base, standard three-groove rifling with "V/P/eagle head" proofs at the breech, "U.S./MODEL/1873" breechblock marking, eagle and shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" on the lock with a three-click tumbler, smooth trigger, single stacking sling swivel on the barrel band, saddle bar and ring on the left, a circled script "ESA/1877" cartouche of Springfield Master Armorer Erskine S. Allin stamped on the left wrist of the stock, and a thick wrist stock with a 10 1/2 inch comb and a compartment in the butt containing a three-piece cleaning rod and first pattern shell extractor tool. Includes a scanned copy of directions for use of the shell extractor tool. Provenance: The Peter Cardone Collection; The Raymond Bentley Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

Excellent, nearly as issued, retaining 97% plus original blue finish with only very light wear around the muzzle and light edge wear on the buttplate, 98% vivid original case colors on the breech block, and 98% original dark oil-quenched casehardening on the receiver, lock, trigger guard and small components. The stock is also excellent with sharp and distinct edges, minor chipping ahead of the lock, a few light handling marks, rich oil finish and an exceptionally crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. This benchmark example of a rare U.S. Springfield Model 1877 Trapdoor carbine, nearly impossible to improve upon, is the finest example Rock Island Auction Company has ever had the privilege to offer and would make an excellent addition to any U.S. military firearms collection!