Seeking Info--Remington Model 1863

[1SG]

A friend of mine recently aquired a Model 1863 percussion musket, cal 58, round barrel. As near as I can tell, these are commonly referred to as the "Harpers Ferry" Model. It's stamped Remington 1863 on the side plate. We're trying to find out a little history. Other markings are "VP" on the breech, a scripted cartouch on the stock believed to be "EB" and a "BH" inspectors mark. Anyone have any idea what these marking stand for? Many thanks...

[Huber Jay]

I suggest you obtain a copy of Roy Marcot new book on THE HISTOY OF REMINGTON FIREARMS found on the home page of this site. This will give you the information you seek on your friends gun. The VP on the gun is for View Proofed. The other letters are the initials of Gov inspectors inspecting the gun and accepting it. Jay Huber RSA