Remington 1858 Zouave Rifle 58 Caliber Percussion Muzzleloader 1863 US Mark
SOLD FOR: $1,331.00
LSB#: WY250417JB224
Make: Remington
Model: 1858 Zouave Rifle
Serial Number: NSNV (No Serial Number Visible)
Year of Manufacture: 1863 (per lockplate)
Caliber: .58 Caliber
Action Type: Percussion Muzzleloader
Markings: The lockplate is marked “1863” behind the hammer and “REMINGTON’S / ILION, N.Y.” forward of the hammer with a U.S. eagle motif. There is also an “L” inspector’s mark on the lockplate. The top of the barrel is marked with clear “VP” and an eagle’s head proof. The left side of the barrel at the breech is marked “STEEL R.K.A.” Two inspector’s cartouches are visible on the left side of the stock. Both barrel bands are marked “U” also an “S” & “C”. The brass buttplate is marked “US”. The rear sight is a leaf-style “speed sight” marked “1”, “3”, and “5” on the respective leaves. The lettre “C” is stamped in to the trigger guard.
Barrel Length: 33”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to a base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a three-leaf graduated flip sight marked for 100, 300, and 500 yards.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece walnut full-length military stock with brass fittings, including patchbox, trigger guard, and buttplate. The wood remains in Very Good to Excellent condition, showing minimal wear and crisp cartouches on the left side. There are no cracks or major imperfections observed.
Type of Finish: Blued barrel, case-hardened lock, brass furniture
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright with minimal corrosion, consistent with black powder use but retains visible and viable rifling. 8.5/10
Overall Condition: This rifle retains a significant amount of its original finish. Case colors are still vibrant on the lockplate. The barrel shows patches of oxidation and age-related corrosion but retains visible proofs and markings. The brass fittings have a mellow patina. The metal surfaces rate in Very Fine overall condition for its age.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer holds on half and full cock, and the trigger releases crisply. We have not test-fired this rifle. As with all antique firearms, a thorough cleaning and inspection may be necessary before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes its original tulip-head ramrod and a wooden tompion inserted in the muzzle.
Our Assessment:
The Remington 1858 Zouave rifle is one of the finest examples of Civil War-era percussion long arms, produced under U.S. government contract but likely issued in limited numbers. It features military-grade construction with a .58 caliber rifled barrel, robust brass fittings, and a distinctive three-leaf rear sight system that earned it the nickname “speed sight.”
This particular rifle, dated 1863 on the lock, is in very fine condition with strong case colors, excellent wood with legible cartouches, and clear proof marks. The inclusion of original components such as the tompion and ramrod only add to its desirability. Though it bears no visible serial number, this is common for the model.
Collectors and Civil War enthusiasts will appreciate the authenticity and completeness of this piece, which is well-preserved and historically significant. It would make a standout addition to any antique arms collection or Civil War display. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
