What is the value of an 1832 harpers ferry rifle?

Answer 1

While you are absolutely correct in referring to the rifle as a Springfield Model of 1898, I believe you will find much more information out there if you refer to it as an 1898 Krag. This was the last incarnation of the Krag-Jorgensen rifle as made by Springfield Armory for US issue (the 1901 carbine was a modification of the 1898 carbine) and was made from 1898 until c.1903.

Krag rifles are highly collectable IF in their original military configuration. Unfortunately, for many years they were simply considered 'surplus rifles' and the vast majority that survive have been sporterized for civilian use. Some of these were very well done by true craftsmen such as the Griffin & Howe firm, but most were amateur jobs involving cutting down the military stocks and so forth.

Typical NOT-sporterized 1898 Krag rifles can range from several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars in value. Some very rare variants can attain $10,000 to the right buyer.

We can help precisely identify the sub-variant of your rifle but will need more information and probably detailed digital photos.

sales@countrygunsmith.net

I have one of the Rifles that you mention in the above answer. On the receiver it is stamped US Model 1898 Springfield Armory with a six digit S/N. It is all original w/ all the hardware, bayonet, shoulder strap mounts, ect. Looks great. Anyone have any interest in it? cyclonegt29@gmail.com

Answer 2

The answer is: "It depends".

1) Has the musket been converted from the original Flintlock to percussion?

Most have been converted so if it is still a flintlock it is more valuable.

2) Is it fitted for a bayonet and do you have the bayonet?

More valuable if you have the bayonet.

3) Are the cartouches clear? These are the stampings on the barrel and stock which indicate the government Q/A inspector and other information.

More valuable when the stampings are clear and not rubbed out.

4) Is the barrel rifled and is the rifling in good shape?

More valuable if it is lightly used and the rifling is sharp.

5) Is there documented history with this musket? Where it was used and who used it?

I have seen these at auction go as high as $2,500 in excellent condition.

Answer 3

The value of an 863 Springfield musket depends on its condition. This gun in excellent condition is valued between 525.00 and 650.00 as of 2014.

Answer 4

100-1000 or more depending on EXACTLY what you have, its condition, accessories, history,etc..

Answer 5

would like to find out the value for 1832 Starr musket