Whitney Percussion Mississippi Style Rifle (AL5724)

This Mississippi style Whitney percussion rifle is dated 1845 on the lock. The overall length is approx. 45". The 33" round 58 caliber barrel has a poor bore with no visible rifling and roughness. It is dated 1853 over the chamber, has V over P over eagle inspection marks, and is marked STEEL on the left flat with H.S.L following. It has a short saber bayonet stud  with short guide on the right. The barrel has a brown patina with darkened areas at the muzzle and dents at the rear band. The dented and dinged two brass bands are Model 1863 rifle rounded style. The lock is marked E.WHITNEY over US at the center and N. HAVEN over 1845 (8 missing) at the tail. The brass nose cap, trigger guard, patch box, and US marked butt plate have an even age patina. The ramrod and rear swivel are present. Front swivel, on the forward band, is broken. The Model 1863 "Zouave" rifle stock is good with some missing wood along the ramrod channel, moderate usage wear, and two cartouches on the left flat. The action functions correctly but the mainspring is weak. This interesting rifle with its inspected barrel and stock merits further research.