This is a Model 1860 Spencer Repeating Rifle used during the Civil War. The Union Army purchased approximately 11,470 Spencer rifles, with the initial order in the serial number range of 1000 to 11000. A second order was purchased with the serial numbers falling in the 28000 range. This repeater is serial numbered 4011, and is within the serial number range of Spencer's issued to the 9th Michigan Volunteer Cavalry. The Springfield Research Data shows serial numbers 4012, 4013, 4019 and 4029 having been issued to Company K, 9th Michigan Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. This Spencer rifle has an overall length of 47", with a barrel length of 30". The round barrel has a dark patina that matches the receiver, and a smooth exterior. The six groove rifling is still clearly visible, but worn. The bore is turning dark, and shows very light pitting. It gages out to .54 caliber, so this one did some shooting! The original brass blade front sight, doubling as a bayonet lug, is still present. The rear sight with sliding leaf, is graduated out to 800 yards. The three barrel bands have a patina that matches the rest of the iron parts. The front and rear sling swivels are still reporting for duty. The two piece walnut stock shows that it has seen considerable time in the saddle! The forearm and butt both have a dark, heavily handled and used dark appearance. The forearm still has nice crisp lines along the barrel channel. There are the normal bumps and dings associated with handling and service. There are also several names carved into the forearm. The names Joe, Neil and Harry are clearly visible, along with the initials MHS. The retaining spring for the rear barrel band is broken,but the band stays firmly in place. The butt has a stress crack on the right side that extends 9" from the butt plate. It is shallower the further you get away from the butt plate. There are no visible cartouches, but with all the handling this thing has gone through I'm sure they just wore off! The forearm between the receiver and rear barrel band shows a ton of saddle wear. The butt plate and seven shot tube magazine have the same dark patina as the rest of the iron parts. Overall, this is a decent condition Spencer Repeating Rifle that is in the prime serial number range for the 9th Michigan Cavalry, a very hard fought Union western theater unit. The 9th Michigan was the only Cavalry unit that went with Sherman on his "March to the Sea."

Item # AA2938

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