1863 Springfield value?

[kitchawan kid]

Friend of mine found Springfield 1863 rifle in his barn and wanted to know if it is worth anything,it has good wood,some pitting on barrel and is missing the ramrod.any idea?

[necchi]

too bad it's missing the ramrod
 ain't worth a "hoot" without that..20-30 bucks maybe,,have the buyer pay shipping.

[necchi]

all truth. if it was an original 1863, it wouldn't be sitting in a barn. many/many reproduction models have been made and the value of the gun is determined by it's condition. new their 400-600,,uncleaned after shooting and left to the elements with in weeks could cause damage enough to devalue to 100 or less.
 Some times the parts sold individually can be worth more than the gun it's self.
 photo's and/or more info about other marks on the barrel like manufacturer, lock condition, butt plate, side plate, could help the board help you.

[navygunner]

Actually it might be an actual 1863 in that case it will be worth more than what has been offered. What markings are legible on the weapon? If it say "for black powder use only" don't waste your time. If it has italian markings (proof marks etc) don't waste your time. If the wood is good look for 1860's inspector cartouches stamped in the wood. Check the serial numbers which should be present they can also tell when the weapon was manufactured. Even without the rammer if it's an original it can bring up to 1200-1600 dollars. Contact some of the relic company such as Shiloh relics and give them the info you have off the weapon. How old is this barn it was found in? Try to get some background history. As others have said many modern manufactured weapons are being de-farbed and stamped with appropriate period markings. If you think this may be original seek expert help  you have nothing to lose but your time.

Geo Dailey U S Naval Landing Party
Battery D 1st Michigan Light Artillery

[kitchawan kid]

Thank you for your post,we did take it to an expert and it was found to be original.the mans family built and the family lived in the house from the 1700's.no marks on stock or barrel we think it was sold to civilans after the war,sound right? I talk him into keeping it and hanging it over the fireplace.

[navygunner]

Yes, Many surplus weapons were sold to the civilians and Bannerman's in NYC bought alot of surplus equipment including large naval cannon. I'm happy you got an expert appraisal and that your friend now has a piece of history to pass down.

geo