Guns International #: 103224505
Seller's Inventory #: AL10274

Category - Springfield Rifles - Trapdoor - Military Rifles - Antique

Category
Springfield Rifles - Trapdoor
Military Rifles - Antique

"Documented Spanish-American War U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle – .45-70 Government (AL10274)

Description:
"Serial No. 286609, manufactured in early 1885 by Springfield Armory, chambered in .45-70 Government with a 32½" round barrel. Metal surfaces have thinned to a smooth brown/grey patina, with strong factory markings visible on both the breech and lock plate. The stock shows expected handling impressions and retains a sharp 1884 cartouche on the left wrist. Action is smooth and functions correctly. Includes an original Model 1873 socket bayonet with “U.S."-marked scabbard, both in very good condition. According to Springfield Research Service (SRS) records, this rifle was issued to Company G of the 3rd Kentucky Volunteer Infantry during the Spanish-American War. The 3rd Kentucky was mustered into federal service between May 21st and May 31st, 1898, in Lexington, Kentucky, with a total strength of 46 officers and 945 enlisted men. The unit moved to Newport News, Virginia, on July 29, 1898, in preparation for possible deployment to Puerto Rico. However, due to an outbreak of measles and mumps, the regiment was held back and ultimately missed the initial combat deployment. They later arrived in Cuba on January 21, 1899, six weeks after the signing of the peace treaty, as part of the U.S. occupation forces. Once in Cuba, the 3rd Kentucky was tasked with overseeing civil administration, managing the repatriation of Spanish soldiers, demobilizing Cuban revolutionary forces, forming a civil police force, and distributing relief aid to the population. A well-preserved and documented example of a U.S. military rifle with confirmed Spanish-American War service, this Model 1873 represents an important chapter in America’s transition to overseas engagement and military modernization

Antique: Yes

Price: $1,895.00