Guns International #: 103292290
Seller's Inventory #: 256072
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Guns International #: 103292290
Category - Civil War Rifles
- Antique Rifles - Percussion
1 of 2,174 Rare CIVIL WAR Antique P.S. JUSTICE Rifle-Musket MGM MOVIE PROP
METRO GOLDWYN MAYER “MGM CB 27” Marked
Description: 1 of 2,174 Rare CIVIL WAR Antique P.S. JUSTICE Rifle-Musket MGM MOVIE PROP METRO GOLDWYN MAYER “MGM CB 27” Marked Here we present an antique original P.S. Justice 3-Band Rifled-Musket used as a “movie prop” by MGM Studios, made circa 1861 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This movie prop musket was almost certainly used in two of Metro Goldwyn Mayer’s most famous movies, including “Gone with the Wind” and “The Red Badge of Courage”, both Civil War movies. On May 3, 1970, the house David Weiz Company held the Metro Goldwyn Mayer . An individual named Walter O’Conner, who was employed by the house, became one of, if not the first collector to identify and actively collect “movie memorabilia firearms” in the Hollywood area. Mr. O’Connor specifically targeted a musket in that that was marked “MGM CB 28”. It is 100% documented that that particular musket was used by Audie Murphy in the 1951 production of “Red Badge of Courage”. Audie Murphy, of course was America’s most decorated soldier in World War II whose feats are an American legend. This musket is numbered “MGM CB 27”, just one less than the one used by Audie Murphy. The American Civil War had just begun and both sides were desperate for small arms. Phillip S. Justice was there to answer the call for the Union, and he was able to make quick delivery of about 2,174 .69 caliber rifled-muskets. These came in several different variants based on parts available from previous model of U.S. muskets. While he was able to deliver product to the right place at the right time, his muskets were not quite known for their high quality. For instance, he did not necessarily use seasoned wood for the stocks. Ordnance reports were scathing, to say the least, after Justice brought suit against the government for not paying for all the rifles. See one testimonial from an officer below. The case was initially decided in Justice’s favor, but eventually made its way to the Supreme Court and the lower court ruling was reversed, deciding in favor of the government. One source states that the majority of these muskets were eventually issued to the 58th, 88th, and 95th Pennsylvania Volunteers. A fascinating story of profiteering at the beginning of the American Civil War! This movie prop specimen is a Third Type in a 3-band configuration and the double curved trigger guard. The lock and barrel are marked “P.S. JUSTICE/PHILADA.” The overall condition is good. Bright gray patina throughout. The stock is very good for its age. The front barrel band is absent. Front sight absent. Markings are legible. The action is robust. The bore is dark, good for its age with serviceable rifling. “W.C.C.O” marked on the right barrel and wrist. “MGM CB 27” is marked on the left barrel. The number “27” is marked on the left stock flat. The buttplate is oversized, mostly at the toe. Here is a very scarce Civil War musket with an interesting story! Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction. Barrel is 39 inches. Caliber: .69 Percussion Overall condition as seen in photos. Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Delivered directly to your door by express mail! Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY. $2500 #256072 Antique: Yes Price: $2,500.00 Buy Now Pay with ![]() Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 103292290
Seller's Inventory #: 256072
Guns International #: 103292290
Seller's Inventory #: 256072