Civil War Confederate 1853 Tower Enfield Musket In .577 Cal, Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,277
WOA#: WY240311JH007
Make: Tower Enfield
Model: 1853
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: 1862
Caliber: .577
Action Type: Percussion Muzzleloader.
Markings: The lock plate is marked, “1862 TOWER” with a british crown. The barrel has various proof markings on the barrel. The stock has a CS cartouche on the top of the comb and one above the trigger on the side of the forend. “HS” is carved into the right side of the stock. There are two names carved under the buttplate, “Robert M. Fey” and another that is illegible.
Barrel Length: 39”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small triangle fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a flip up ladder sight marked out to 9.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece full length hardwood with a brass endcap, three barrel bands, a straight grip, straight comb, with a brass buttplate. There are two sling loops. There are pressure dents and scratches throughout. The wood has shrunk from age. There are cracks at the rear tangs, buttplate, and forend. There are scattered chips throughout. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Very Good overall condition for an antique.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Refinished.
Bore Condition: The smooth bore is rusted. There is moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates at a 3/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 50% of its metal finish. The barrel has refinished over pitting. The rear sight is rusted. The barrel bands have gone to patina. The ram rod is in good condition. The markings are worn and blurry. The screws are worn. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as an antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The 1853 Enfield musket, also known as the Pattern 1853 Enfield or simply the Enfield rifle, was a widely used firearm during the mid-19th century. It was a muzzle-loading percussion cap rifle used by various military forces around the world, including the British Army and other British Empire troops. During the American Civil War (1861–1865), both the Union and Confederate armies made use of imported Enfield rifles. The Confederates especially relied on these rifles due to shortages of domestically produced firearms. The Confederates imported large quantities of Enfield rifles from British manufacturers and also obtained captured rifles from battlefields. These rifles were often preferred by Confederate troops over other available firearms due to their quality and effectiveness. The use of Enfield rifles by the Confederates continued throughout the war and played a significant role in many battles and skirmishes.
Overall, the 1853 Enfield musket was an important firearm during the American Civil War and contributed to the military efforts of both the Union and Confederate armies. Its widespread use by Confederate forces highlights the significance of imported weaponry in shaping the course of the conflict. -R.E.
