I have a NYS Rolling Block Rifle in 50-70.
The rear sight was re-machined into a target sight as per Gen. Geo Wingate's book (Manual for Rifle Pratice, dated 1878)
There is a small engraved silver plaque on the right hand side of the butt stock with the following name.
E. A. Rockwood (under the name is)
Maj. and I R P
A couple of weeks ago, I was sent out of town for work and was able to stop at the NY Military Museum in Saratoga Springs, NY
They were able to tell me that I R P stood for
Inspector of Rifle Practice.
They had records of a Major Ebenezer A. Rockwood
who was a Brigade Inspector of Rifle Practice from 1875 to 1879. He became a Col. in 1882 and lived in Buffalo, NY
Sorry for being so long, my question is
that now that the gun is I.D. how much does this add to the value of the rifle.
The rifle is in very good condition, the bore is very good to fine. Wood is in excellent shape with sharp inspector's stamp on left side of butt stock. Any help on this matter would be greatly appreated.
Thanks,
Matt
NYS Rolling Block Rifle
Eye of the beholder
Matt- Historical information on a specific firearm's use is often an enhancement to value, especially if that person is well known. In the case of an unknown Major/Colonel, however, the enhancement is small unless accompanied with other personal items. Some collectors will pay a premium for a gun with history, some will be turned off by the non-standard nature of the "defaced" arm. IMHO, I suspect that a ten to twenty percent premium would be paid by the former class.
NYS Rolling Block
Ed,
Thanks for the reply.
I think some years ago we both were bidding on a photo of a New York State National Guard soldier holding a NYS carbine. on ebay.
What will it cost me to get a copy of it.
On April 1st & 2nd, I am putting my (50) Military Rolling Blocks on display
at a gun show in upstate New York.
A copy of your photo would look nice with my display.
Matt
Thanks for the reply.
I think some years ago we both were bidding on a photo of a New York State National Guard soldier holding a NYS carbine. on ebay.
What will it cost me to get a copy of it.
On April 1st & 2nd, I am putting my (50) Military Rolling Blocks on display
at a gun show in upstate New York.
A copy of your photo would look nice with my display.
Matt