Pattern 1853 Enfield or Tower Rifled Musket with Original Bayonet – Lock Dated 1862

Pattern 1853 Enfield or Tower Rifled Musket with Original Bayonet – Lock Dated 1862  – These rifled muskets, commonly referred to as the M1853 or P53 Tower Musket, were cal. .577, muzzle-loading weapons, initially issued for use in the British Empire, from 1853 to 1867. Many of these rifles would see importation into the United States, for use by both Union and Confederate armies, during the Civil War. This example was seemingly imported to the U.S. for use by Union troops, as no telltale Confederate markings appear on the gun. The rifle remains in overall excellent condition, with the metal exhibiting a smooth, metallic gray patina. The stock is in equally good condition, with no significant dings or cracks; there is some “burnout” in the stock behind the nipple bolster, from period firing. The lock plate is stamped with the usual royal crown behind the hammer; in front of the hammer is stamped: 1862 over TOWER; in front of the latter are what appear to be two small numbers or letters. The original ramrod is in place and is complete, with the small threaded area in place at the end. The brass components present an attractive, mellow patina. On the breech section of the barrel is one visible gauge mark of 25, with the second obscured. The forward sling swivel is no longer present; the trigger guard swivel is in place. The firing mechanism is functional, although in the full cock position, the hammer slips – we will have this repaired prior to anyone purchasing the gun. The original long range sight remains in place; finally, the bore evidences war period firing, thereby retaining only a modest amount of rifling. as it appears that this gun saw action during the Civil War. This is an excellent example of one of most significant longarms of the Civil War.