Original U.S. Civil War Belgian made “Brazilian Contract” Light Minié Percussion Rifle by O.P. Drissen & Cie of Liège - Serial 4769

Original item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of rare Imported Civil War rifle. Usually referred to as the "Brazilian Contract Light Minié Rifle", research has shown that these are more correctly called the "Brazilian Model 1855 Naval Rifle". These were essentially a Belgian made percussion rifle very similar to the British P-1856 two band Enfield rifle, made utilizing the Belgian Minié ball rifled system. Approximately 6,000 of these rifles were imported by Herman Boker and sold in New York City in early 1861. The States of New York and Ohio purchased many of these, though we unfortunately cannot find any state markings on this rifle.

The gun features two barrel bands of French/Belgian style, with an overall length of 48 inches and a 32 inch long rifled barrel. These scheduled to be sold to Brazil, however these ended up usurped by Herman Boker, which took ALL of the almost 6,000 units to sell to various states in the union.

These were all made by O.P. Drissen & Cie of Liège, and the (Anchor) D C marking of this firm is seen on virtually all parts of the gun. It is also marked with the "Perron" Tower of Liège by the cap bolster, and the E / L G / * in an Oval Liège proof mark on the other side of the breech. There are three holes on the back of the wrist, as well as an outline of a shield, which is where there was originally an American Spread Eagle escutcheon, a feature of this model. Like most, it was unfortunately later removed, though we can still see that it was definitely there in the past. The serial number on these were marked on the bayonet mounting lug, and this example is marked with 4769.

Condition of the rifle is very good, showing a lovely worn patina on the metalwork from service and cleaning. The stock shows the expected dents and dings from service, and does have a repaired wrist crack, which looks to have gone all the way through, and been repaired long ago. We checked the bore, and it shows a mostly bright finish with clear lands and grooves. It shows light wear and some past oxidation, but overall it's definitely in great shape, still measuring about 0.58" in diameter. The lock functions, currently will not hold at half cock. The nipple cone is in very good condition, showing just a bit of light fouling. The rear sight is present, showing wear, and the front sight was replaced with a brass example.

In very fine condition, showing little use. These are extremely rare despite 6,000 units having been purchased. Ready to research and display!

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1861
Caliber: .61"
Cartridge Type: Minié Ball and Powder
Barrel Length: 32 Inches
Overall Length: 48 Inches
Action type: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle Loading

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