^Lot 73 Civil War Sharps New Model 1863 Breechloading Percussion Infantry Rifle

Civil War Sharps New Model 1863 Breechloading Percussion Infantry Rifle, #C28962, .52 cal., 30" round barrel with block-blade front (also a bayonet lug) and folding-leaf rear sights, marked "Sharps Rifle/Manufg. Co./Hartford, Conn." ahead of rear sight and "New Model 1863" behind; straight breech receiver has integral automatic pellet primer, usual Lawrence and Sharps markings, serpentine trigger guard/operating lever that drops breech open for loading/auto extraction; oil-finished walnut forestock has 3 spring-retained bands (middle with sling swivel) and nosecap, matching buttstock a 5.5" patchbox (marked "P"), sling swivel at belly and crescent buttplate (marked "B"). Mfg'd mid-1860s, in just 6,150 qty. Condition is good retaining traces of barrel blue (generally a pleasing thin blue-brown patina), else smooth gunmetal showing traces of case colors, sharp edges and markings. Stocks are sound showing minor dings, faint left-side inspector's mark, and added varnish. Action is smooth, bore shows light oxidation and fine rifling. Est.: $1,800-$2,400. (Antique)