*** Photos Added *** Spencer Rifle serial # ? UPDATED INFORMATION

[NWM patriot]

Two Flints
I am looking at purchasing a 1860 Spencer rifle Ser.# 1928. Could you please look it up and give me any info you have on that #?
Being I am new to the Spencer world is there any thing I should be looking for to verify its authenticity?

Here are some photos the seller sent me of the rifle I am looking at.  It looks to be in good condition, other than the replacement barrel. I have since found out the barrel is # 12121 and may be a 6 groove. I really need to look at it in person. He is asking $2200 and I'm fine with that if it is a fair value.  What do you guys think?










                                            (Photos Added by Two Flints)

Thank you for your help.

[Two Flints]

NWM Patriot,

The serial # at the top of the receiver should match with the serial # on the underside of the barrel once you remove the forearm.  If you can check that the serial #s match at both places.

The closest serial # I find in my SRS books to your #1928 is Serial is #1919, which was issued to the 1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry on July 27, 1863.

Hope this helps. I hope you have read my Spencer Serial # Disclaimer

Are you joining SSS?  Let me know by Email @ fsgrand2@fairpoint.net

Two Flints

[NWM patriot]

 I had the seller look under the forearm on the barrel there isn't an other serial number, it also is a 3 groove rifled barrel instead of the 6.
Does this mean it was re barreled after the war? Also how much does it reduce its value?
Thanks you for any info.
NWM Patriot

[Two Flints]

Regarding the serial #1919 I mentioned above in my post, that Spencer rifles was returned to the Spencer Company for repairs . . . your Spencer Rifle serial #1928 may have been re-barreled, which could explain the lack of matching serial #.  Not sure when that may have happened, the repaired barrel.

As far as the change in value . . . need to see photos of the Spencer, and need to know how much is the seller asking for a not so original Spencer Rifle.  Also, what is the buyer (you) willing to pay.

Hope others will post their opinions . . . Blair?  Herbert?  any other SSS members?

Two Flints

Two Flints 

[Blair]

Two Flints,

I would agree. Your suggestion for more information on the firearm, along with photos would be best.

As to value.... condition is very important. Value is also relative to asking price and just what one is willing to spend..
Best I have to offer at this time,
Blair

[Two Flints]

NWM Patriot,

Out of curiosity, I checked on the other serial # 12121 you mentioned for the replacement(?) barrel.  I found a Spencer Carbine with a serial # 12120 issued to Company M, 10th Michigan Volunteer Cavalry on April 17, 1864. Not sure how the serial #s can be so close for different type barrels - rifle vs carbine, length, barrel bands etc.

Two Flints