This is a three band P53 Enfield with an 1862 dated lock plate. The lock plate and barrel proof marks indicate that this rifled musket was produced in Birmingham, England. The walnut stock has seen use, but is in good condition. There are the normal dings and scratches from service. There is an age crack on the right side of the stock, running from the nose cap almost to the front barrel band. The entire stock has a dark, attic black appearance. There are no visible cartouches to be seen on the stock flat opposite the lock, or anywhere else for that matter. However, each side of the stock has some carvings on them. The right stock comb has the name McQue carved in it. Checking the database showed 53 matches for that name during the Civil War. 52 of the results were for Union soldiers, 1 came back for a Confederate soldier. On the left side of the stock are the initials EFB. Somebody with a little more time might be able to narrow this one down to an individual soldier. The lock plate is stamped 1862 over TOWER with a crown behind the hammer. The main spring is weak, but the hammer locks up in half cock and full cock and aligns squarely with what looks to be the original nipple. The markings on the .577 caliber barrel are Birmingham proof marks. What looks to be the original ramrod accompanies the gun. The bore is darkening but only has very light pitting. The rifling is clearly visible. The rear sight is missing but the shadow of it can still be seen on the barrel. The barrel, bands, and lock plate all have a matching dark patina. The front and rear sling swivels are still present. The nose cap,brass trigger guard and butt plate fit the stock like a glove, and have a dark chocolate patina. It appears that this Civil War long arm walked right out of the attic into the shop! By 1864 the Union army was equipped with mainly Springfield rifles. Odds are that this is a Union Army used rifle, according to the database results. Regardless of which side it served with, this is a true unmolested survivor of that terrible conflict.

Item # AA1210

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