1861 dated Springfield

[Ricochet]

I picked up an 1861 dated Springfield. Both the lock plate and barrel are dated 1861, although the barrel date is a little less distinct. It is in very nice condition, with an excellent bore. There is a block "F" stamped into the stock about 2" forward of the trigger guard. Does anyone have an educated guess as to what the meaning of this mark might be?

 

[Jobe Holiday]

Most likely a Company designation. When the muskets are racked in an Armory setting the "F" would be prominently displayed.
J.

 

[JOHN42768]

Great to have some History in your hands

 

[Yankeedave]

When I reenacted I carried an 1861 Springfield reproduction. Was in company F. Nice looking weapon.

 

[WJC]

Nice acquisition from what you've shown. Can you share more photos? Thanks!

 

[Ricochet]

Thank you. I will take more photos tomorrow and post them.

 

[Ricochet]

Here are a few more photos of the Springfield. I used my cell phone, so the photos are not great. Unfortunately the area of the barrel date and proof marks has been cleaned rather harshly, IMO, and the barrel date is now faint, but it is there.

 

[captaindrew]

Nice piece!

 

[Jobe Holiday]

A very nice acquisition, and with the most desirable Springfield date, too!

 

[Lanyard Puller]

One more photo, please. Need to see the rear sight, to see if it's an early one {rare} or a latter one.. There is a significant difference in the value.

 

[Ricochet]

What in particular do you need to see on the rear sight? I will try to show what you need.

 

[mofederal]

I love the '61, one of my favorite all time rifles. Thanks for posting it, a really great looking example of the iconic rifle.

 

[Ricochet]

Here is the rear sight. It is not the early one. I wish it was.

 

[Yankeedave]

Has the folding sight.

 

[Jobe Holiday]

The first model rear sight bases are of the 1858 pattern, but without the steady pin. They are around, you just have to look a bit and be patient.
J.

 

[Okc_bob]

Here are a few more photos of the Springfield. I used my cell phone, so the photos are not great. Unfortunately the area of the barrel date and proof marks has been cleaned rather harshly, IMO, and the barrel date is now faint, but it is there.

Great looking rifle. I've got '64 Norwich which was harshly cleaned as well. My rear sight has an "A" on it. Unsure if original.

 

[UCVRelics]

Very Nice musket Thanks for sharing.

 

[Jobe Holiday]

Okc_bob - Your rear sight appears to be original, but not original to your musket.
J.

 

[Ricochet]

Thank you all for the kind responses and the information. The "F" mark in the stock is interesting, and I am curious as to whether anyone else has the same mark on the stock of their musket. As John said, it is great to hold a piece of history in your hands.

 

[Package4]

Here are a few more photos of the Springfield. I used my cell phone, so the photos are not great. Unfortunately the area of the barrel date and proof marks has been cleaned rather harshly, IMO, and the barrel date is now faint, but it is there.

Very nice piece and becoming more valuable by the day, these were harshly used and yours is in very good condition and looks completely original. Very nice bore as well, a piece to be proud of!