^Lot 69 Rare U.S. Model 1871 Ward-Burton Single-Shot Bolt Action Rifle

Rare U.S. Model 1871 Ward-Burton Single-Shot Bolt Action Rifle, NVSN, .50-70 CF cal., 32.62" round barrel, block-blade front (also socket bayonet lug) and sliding-leaf rear sights; 6.5" receiver marked "(federal eagle)/U.S./Springfield 1871" at left, "Ward Burton Patent/Dec. 20, 1859, Feb. 21, 1871" top of bolt with 2.62" handle; steel fittings are 2-pc. trigger guard with swivel, curved buttplate marked "US", 2 spring-retained bands (upper with swivel), nosecap, slotted/grooved ramrod. Oil-finished walnut fullstock has 2 inspector cartouches at left. Mfg'd ca. 1871, with just 1,011 rifles produced. Condition is excellent retaining bright steel showing very light age, dark case colors, sharp edges and markings. Stock is sound and smooth having light marks (esp. right butt), original feathering, visible cartouches, pleasing grain, color, and finish. Action is smooth, bore is bright with sharp rifling. This is a very rare 1871 Trials rifle. Est.: $2,000-$2,500. (Antique)