Converted US Navy Contract Whitney Model 1861 Plymouth Rifle

Description

6/21/23 - This is an original US Whitney M1861 Plymouth Percussion Rifle that has been since converted for use as a shotgun. This is evidenced by the bore having no rifling and a modified rear sight. The rifle has a natural aged look throughout and dark patina covering all visible areas of metal surface. There are some traces of dark, original bluing mixed within this patina, which we rate around 40% overall. More significant wear and metal corrosion is found near the rear sight and top of the receiver. The side plate of the rifle has a faint US American Eagle and barely-visible date stamp of 1863. Originally, this rifle would have been one of ~10,000 ordered by the US Navy during the Civil War. Mechanically, the rifle is sound and functional. The bore, although smooth with no rifling, has only mild patina throughout and is still in great shape considering its age. The wood stock appears to be original and in very good overall condition, although there are no visible cartouche or markings on the stock. There's signs of aging throughout but and two hairline cracks, one on either side of the rifle, both located near the side-plate / receiver area. Comes with an original ramrod as shown. This is a fairly uncommon conversion so if anyone has additional information on these please feel free to contact us!