1873 U.S. Springfield

I was wondering how rare an 1873 U.S. Springfield was?  I found online that they were one of the models Custer used.  I also saw that some 760,000 of them were manufactured but I have no idea how many are thought to still be around in collector's hands. Or really what the number means as far as if it's a lot or a little compared to other firearms manufactured around that time. The reason I ask is cause I know someone who acquired one and hasn't done anything to really preserve it.

also, I know more times than not you don't want to do anything to the relic cause it could harm it or decrease the value of it.  Besides keeping it in a secure, moisture controlled environment, are there any other things that should be done to maintain it's value?

Thanks alot!

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Hello Farmdigger,
                        The 1863 springfield is a highly collectable
firearm. these were mass produced for union troops.there are many of these available to purchase on the open market. However
as Christian stated many factors are taken into consideration as to there value, such as condition, if all the parts are orgional. Do
you have the bayonet that was issuded with the rifle? How did the person obtain the rifle can increase the value example, if it was passed down thru the family? etc.
                        The 1853 springfield actually has two types,
the first model has clamping bands and 273,265 was produced
The type Two model the  clamping bands were replaced with solid oval bands. and 255,040 of these rifles were produced, and this variation was somtimes refered to as the 1864 model. which was
produced from 1864 -1865. The second model sold for $ 5.00 at the time. while the First model sold for 20.00.
                        First you have to determine which rifle you have
and the condition to determine its value.
                        I hope this helps somewhat, if I can help you further let me know. Best Wishes ,,,,Rob
                         

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Good morning:  It has all matching numbers.  Someone modifed the stock to a sporter version. I do not crimp the cases when reloading, but rely upon the lub to hold the bullet / projectile in place. 

Don Jose de La Mancha

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Geeze  HI my old friend Cornelius, it is very good to see you again. Thanks for letting me know where you are.  Missed you.

Don Jose de La Mancha

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Hi Farmdigger,
                   Looking forward to seeing some pics if you can get them. Its rare that a firearm is in such bad shape that it cannot be restored. the downfalling to restoration is the value can go down if to many orgional parts are replaced. But then again you never know all ot may need is some god old fashion TLC and a good cleaning. If I can be of any help feel free to ask,
Best Wishes...Rob

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