This is my Early 4 digit serial number M1873.
Anyone ever seen this letter combo that’s on top of both the block and receiver?
What about the letter B on top of the chamber flat?
Letters on top of early 1873 Block & Receiver??
Moderator: 45govt
Re: Letters on top of early 1873 Block & Receiver??
I've never seen anything similar.
I doubt very much that it was applied at the time of manufacture, and suspect it was added leaving regular army service and probably after leaving military use.
My guess would be it is some sort of "rack mark" for a veteran's group or quasi-military group- fraternal group, school with military flavor, even a scouting group.
If proven to be from a specific entity, it may add to the value, but as an unknown marking, it hurts the value somewhat, and also the demand.
I doubt very much that it was applied at the time of manufacture, and suspect it was added leaving regular army service and probably after leaving military use.
My guess would be it is some sort of "rack mark" for a veteran's group or quasi-military group- fraternal group, school with military flavor, even a scouting group.
If proven to be from a specific entity, it may add to the value, but as an unknown marking, it hurts the value somewhat, and also the demand.