Original British P-1853 Enfield Tower and V.R. Marked 3rd Model Percussion Rifle – dated 1855 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Offered here is a very nice example of the 3rd Model Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle Musket, produced in London, England, with brass butt plate, trigger guard and nose cap. The three steel barrel bands are held on with screw pressure, as typical of the 3rd model, and all bear British Proof marks. The lock is marked 1855 / TOWER below the cap bolster, and it is marked with a QUEEN’S CROWN / V. R. (faint) to the rear of the hammer. This indicates military production for the British empire. There is also the correct “lock viewer’s mark” to the right of the date.

The barrel bears various British proof marks in two lines, some of which we do not recognize, so this example looks like it was probably serviced at arsenal during its working life. There is definitely a “viewed” marking, as well as the correct CROWN / T P / (ARROW) “Tower Proof”, only seen on tower produced examples. There are traces of the original stock rondel stamping on the right side of the butt stock, as well as an (ARROW) / B O board of ordnance marking. There are also some rack numbers stamped into the butt plate tang.

The wood is complete and in very good shape, with no structural issues and a lovely aged patina. There are some dents and small chips, but nothing out of line for a rifle that was in service. The sight slide is present, and the bands tighten properly. The the bore still shows clear three-groove rifling, though it has some oxidation and dirt. Lock is functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. Both sling swivels are present and in good shape.

A great chance to pick up a nice honestly used British-Issued P-1853 Rifled Musket, ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: 1855
Caliber: .58 inches
Ammunition Type: .577 Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Barrel Length: 39 inches 
Overall Length: 55 inches
Action: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.