Austrian Lorenz M1854 Type I Rifle .547 Percussion Muzzleloader Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,026.00
LSB#: LSB250521GJ052
Make: Austrian
Model: Lorenz Model 1854 Type I
Serial#: 5441
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1860s, Antique
Caliber: 13.9mm (approximately .547 inches)
Action Type: Percussion Ignition Muzzle-Loaded Rifle-Musket
Barrel Length: 35 Inches
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed by the muzzle. The rear sight is a dovetailed two-position sight. The rear sight presents a low profile V-notch in the down position, when raised the sight presents three V-notches: one at the top marked “8”, one on the upper portion of the sight marked “6” and one at the center marked “5”.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The stock is one-piece wood featuring a nose cap with a fixed ferrule at the bottom which is secured by a spring, two barrel bands secured by springs (the forward barrel band has a fixed sling swivel at the bottom), a slot in the forend for the included ramrod, a lock-plate opposite a side-plate, a sling swivel at the front of the trigger guard, a straight wrist, a straight comb, and metal butt-plate. The stock has some light handling marks, nicks and scuffs. The stocks have been sanded and refinished and possibly repaired at the wrist. The LOP is 13 1/4” from the trigger to the rear of the butt-plate. The butt-plate is coated in mild to heavy erosion. Overall, the stock is in Good condition for an Antique.
Type of Finish: Bright
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling. There is scattered light erosion concentrated in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 5/10.
Overall Condition: The rifle has no surviving metal finish. The gun is coated in scattered patches of light surface erosion but is still somewhat bright. There are some light handling marks, nicks and scuffs. There is intermittent pitting throughout. The serials and proofs are clear. The rest of the marking are no longer existent. Overall, the rifle-musket is in Very Good condition for an Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Austrian Lorenz M1854 Type I was the standard infantry rifle-musket of the Austrian Empire during the mid-19th century and played a significant role in several major conflicts, including the Second Italian War of Independence and the American Civil War. Chambered in approximately .547 caliber (13.9mm), this percussion muzzleloader was renowned for its accuracy and rugged simplicity. Many Lorenz rifles—particularly early Type I models like this one—were imported into the United States by both Union and Confederate forces, making them a desirable addition to Civil War-era collections. The distinctive two-position rear sight and robust iron hardware make it a fine example of mid-19th century European military design.
This particular specimen has weathered the decades well, with matching serial numbers and a functional lock mechanism. The bore retains strong rifling, and while it shows light erosion, it remains in shootable antique condition for those inclined toward living history. The stock has been refinished and possibly repaired at the wrist, which is not uncommon for arms of this age. With its period-correct fittings and a well-preserved profile, this Lorenz M1854 stands as a tangible link to both European military history and America’s most defining conflict. For collectors of antique military long guns, especially those with Civil War interest, this Austrian import offers both character and historical value. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
