The mid-19th century was a turning point in military small arms, and surviving examples that tie manufacturing detail to battlefield provenance are highly valued by collectors and historians. This rifle-musket combines solid condition with clear maker and inspection marks that support its likely Confederate service.

BRITAIN/ENGLAND PROBABLE CONFEDERATE BRITISH PATTERN 1853 RIFLE-MUSKET

This Pattern 1853 rifle-musket was sold by Sinclair, Hamilton & Company of London and is most likely Confederate-issued. As noted by Pritchard & Huey in “The English Connection,” the firm was central to Confederate acquisition efforts; many of the arms they supplied were Pattern 1853 rifle muskets. Shop this product here to view provenance and current pricing.

Historical provenance and markings

This example carries Birmingham barrel proofs—crown/25/crown/25/crown followed by a J—consistent with a 25 bore (.577 caliber). The lock is marked 1862/TOWER at the front with a crown at the rear. The stock bears two small oval S/HC stamps (one forward of the buttplate tang and one on the left flat), and the buttplate tang is stamped 22. A stocker’s name, J.A. GRIFFIN, is impressed behind the triggerguard tang. These features together give strong documentary support for the firearm’s period service and chain of custody.

Technical characteristics and field relevance

Barrel, caliber, and action

The 39″ round .577 caliber barrel features a good bore and strong rifling; this rifling profile is typical for the Pattern 1853 and contributes to improved accuracy with period round ball or Minie-style projectiles. The action functions correctly, and the percussion lock marked 1862 indicates wartime manufacture and inspection standardization.

Furniture, stock, and condition

Brass furniture is described as very good, and the stock shows no chips or cracks with only light use marks. Metal has been cleaned bright with expected light-to-moderate pitting around the bolster; the rear sight spring screw is absent but otherwise hardware is intact. Price is listed at $4,500.99—reflective of its condition and likely Confederate provenance. View product details and pricing.

Collector and operational notes

For collectors, the combination of Sinclair, Hamilton & Company associations, the S/HC stamps, the J.A. GRIFFIN stock stamp, and the Tower/1862 lock creates a compelling acquisition. For historical shooters using period-appropriate black powder and projectiles, the strong rifling and sound action make it a candidate for cautious, informed firing with appropriate safety checks. Check current availability and purchase options on the shop page where the listing links to the retailer. Check availability

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