This is an original M1841 .54 Mississippi rifle. These were used in the Mexican War by the US Regiment of Mounted rifles also later armed with the Colt Walker, it was made famous by the Mississippi regiment under the command of Jefferson Davis, they were also carried extensively both sides in the Civil War.
Probably the most handsome US rifle ever made it has brass patchbox, triggerguard and barrel bands. This example was made by E. Whitney in the year of 1848, so dates towards the end of the Mexican War and could have been used well into the Civil War.
The rifle is all original as seen in the pictures the brass retains a nice old yellow patina, not polished. It has the original sling swivels which are often missing from these. The lock has the is clearly stamped "E.Whitney US, N Haven 1848" It has no pitting and retains the original hammer. The barrel exterior is smooth with no pitting and has the "SK" stamp indicating the barrel is original Whitney made it is the original length of 33 inches. It also has the word "Steel" stamped on the side of the barrel, this was done on rifles produced in 1848 and onwards.
The ramrod is not correct but replacements are easily available for as little as $20.
Sadly the stock around the area in front of the lock has been broken though all the way around and repaired, it is not easy to see in the pictures but more visible close up with the naked eye, ideally it could do with a better quality repair or tidying, although it could be left as it if desired. Replacement stock are available from at least three sources I know of in the US, but this stock still retains the two original inspectors cartouches, one being clearer than the other and would be easily repaired or improved with some basic work. One other thing the wood directly behind the hammer has had a very old piece of sheet brass placed (1inch) over the wood perhaps a period repair? It is very old I am very reluctant to remove it to see what is underneath, it does not detract from the rifle and is part of the rifles history.
Overall a nice example of a very historical US rifle, all the metal work is good, the stock is as mentioned but this could improved vastly with little effort, these rifles are very scarce in the UK, Mexican War dated examples being more sort after, the last example I saw for sale was offered at around £4000 although in better condition with regards just to the stock, hence the reason for the low price of this one.
Please email with any questions. I have tried to show everything in the pics but am limited to ten, if there is anything you wish to see please ask.
A reluctant sale but I am thinning my collection.
Shipping within the UK varies between, £15-30 depending on insurance and delivery time required 24-48hr.
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[ Purchased with Buy Out ] 
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