^Lot 4386 SCARCE MILLER CONVERSION MODEL 1861 BREECHLOADING

RIFLE. 58. S# NSN. Bbl 39". 1 of only approximately 2,000 Model 1861 muskets having been converted by the Meridian Manufacturing Company to Miller patent breechloader rimfire rifles. The lockplate is stamped with a patriotic eagle above "U.S.", followed by "PARKERS' SNOW & CO./ MERIDEN, CONN.". Tail of lock is dated "1864". Top of breechblock is stamped "W.H & G.W. MILLER/ PATENT MAY 23. 1865/ MERIDEN MANFG.CO./ MERIDEN. CONN." Buttplate is stamped "U.S.". Metal components are in the white. Stock as been modified via a slot to the rear of the breechblock for loading. Stock is mounted with a period brown leather sling. CONDITION: metal components exhibit some scattered pitting and areas of discoloration, with some areas of striations from former cleaning. Bore is bright, exhibiting fair rifling throughout. Stock show scattered marks from handling and storage, but is otherwise very good overall. PROVENANCE: From the Lifelong Collection of Glen E. Mattox. (01-22492/MLW). ANTIQUE. $800-1,200.