Confederate converted M1817 US "common" rifle- $1850.00
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M1817 US contract "Common Rifle". Identified as a Confederate conversion to percussion by its bolster applied directly to the barrel, without the barrel breech being cut off a new breech section applied, as on Union conversions. Follows most closely the conversions of D.C.Hodgkins & Sons, with their distinctive straight edges on the bottom of the bolster. The various screws have serial numbers on them, and there are some roman numerals observed in the barrel channel of the stock and inside the patchbox cover, thought to be assembly markings. Despite its lack of maker marking, which was often lost as a result of refurbishing at the time of conversion, it is most likely a Deringer, though could be a R.Johnson, as it only has date of 1821 at the back of the lock. Metal parts have been buffed to white, barrel proofs present at breech. Overall virtually free of pitting with a few scattered pinpricks. Stock was probably lightly cleaned, showing scattered marks, a few moderate. Missing the latch and spring from the patchbox. Mechanically good, sold as a collector item only, not warranted safe to shoot.
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