Description:

UNION SPRINGFIELD MUSKET WITH EXPLODED BREECH
A remarkable relic from the Third Battle of Winchester (or Battle of Opequon), a Union .58 caliber Springfield rifled musket whose breech was blown-open in the heat of battle, likely caused when an overzealous infantryman inadvertently loaded the gun with two or more charges of powder. The rifle bears a 40" barrel supported by a walnut stock, three barrel band configuration with band springs. The lock plate is stamped "US Springfield" with eagle emblem and is dated 1864. The rupture of the barrel was incredible - the steel had been opened over half an inch and the barrel is torn from where the nipple attachment meets the barrel to almost 3" forward. Additionally, a 6" section of the wood stock flew off at the same time. The infantryman, if right handed, was certainly stunned and likely wounded; if left-handed he was probably killed outright. The rifle is accompanied by a ca. 1930s tag with typewritten description: "Relic from the Battle of Winchester, Va. from the Wilson collection Hickory, Pa.". The name of a later collection holding this piece has been obliterated. A contemporary battlefield pick-up, in very good condition. Soldiers on both sides of the conflict would, in the confusion of battle, sometimes load their guns two, three or even four times before firing. When they finally pulled the trigger, their weapon would forcefully explode.

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September 11, 2013 11:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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