Original British V.R. Marked Tower P-1853 Enfield 3rd Model Percussion Rifled Musket – dated 1859 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Offered here is a very nice example of the 3rd Model Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle Musket, 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 bear British Proof marks. The lower band has however been replaced with a later “Baddeley” style band with a recessed securing screw. The lock is marked 1859 / TOWER below the cap bolster, and it is also marked with a QUEEN’S CROWN / V. R. to the rear of the hammer. This indicates military production for the British empire. There is the correct “lock viewer’s mark” to the right of the date, and on the inside of the lock it is in fact marked PRYSE & REDMAN.

The breech end of the barrel bears a collection of British proof marks, including the CROWN / TP / BROAD ARROW “Tower Proof”, among others, which can probably be used to identify the maker and inspectors. There is also a maker marked on the left side of the stock below the lower lock screw, however it is too faded for us to read. The only marking on the butt stock that we can still see is the “Opposed Broad Arrows” meaning it was sold out of service. The rest of the markings have been removed by wear and cleaning. The barrel bands, screws, and many other components bear the correct British markings. The butt plate tang on this example actually has a regimental marking of V / LCS / 8 / 153, which definitely has some great research potential.

The metalwork of the rifle shows overall light peppering in many places, now cleaned away. There is some evidence of the barrel bands having been refinished as well. The wood stock is complete and in very good condition, showing decades of service and cleaning. It doe shave a recoil crack on running from the lower lock screw to the breech, a very common area where they occur. The wood has a lovely glow, with some staining near the metal fittings. The sight slide is present and functional, and the bands tighten properly. The the bore still shows clear rifling, with a bit of wear and fouling present. Lock is functional, however it does not hold at half cock. Both sling swivels are present and in good shape, as is the ramrod.

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

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1859
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.