MR1602 CONNECTICUT MILITIA PEABODY RIFLE IN 45-70; This is one of only 2000 purchased by the State of Connecticut in 1871 and issued to their State militia. Connecticut Militia marked gun with a 33 inch round barrel chambered in 45-70 Govt. caliber. A very good bore with strong rifling and light frosting. Barrel is a dull gray patina as is the receiver. Inspection marks are found throughout. Wood stock shows some use and handling mars as you would expect from a military rifle. The bottom of the stock features a small tag that is marked “CONN/1848” indicating that this was one of 2000 rifles made for the Connecticut State Militia There are also unit/rack markings on the butt plate tang. This one was made in 1871. Connecticut bought 2,000 of the .43 Spanish caliber Peabody rifles from the Providence Tool Company in 1871-72. Then in 1877 they were returned to Providence Tool Company for refurbishment and re-barreled for the 45-70 Government caliber cartridges and fitted with new rear sights. A rare opportunity to get one of these historic rifles.
ANTIQUE $ 2,275.
