Exceptional Snider Mk. III Two-Band Volunteer Rifle with Original Tower Lock

NSN, .577 Snider, 29” barrel with a fine, bright bore that has tiny traces of freckling within the grooves.  This is a very handsome rifle has some rather interesting features: an 1858 dated, "VR" cyphered, 1858-dated, "TOWER" military lock mated to a Mk. III, "S/(arrow)" commercial receiver and breechblock, and a slightly shorter than regulation barrel.  The barrel retains 97% plus of the original blue that has faded slightly at the muzzle, and begun to acquire a subtle plum-brown tint over time.  The breechblock retains a commensurate amount of original color case-hardening that fades to darkly mottled gray for a portion on the lockplate and hammer.  The brass trigger guard and nosecap have a bright yellow patina which repeats on the lock screw bolsters and buttplate.  The walnut stock is in excellent original condition and has only a few very minor handling marks scattered about and a crisp 1886-dated, "TOWER LONDON / WO" cartouche on the right side of the butt.  An iron ramrod is included as is an original chain-mounted firing pin protector.  The mechanism is tight and functions flawlessly.  This is an extremely interesting, military marked Volunteer Pattern Snider "Serjeant’s Rifle" in absolutely excellent condition and would make a fantastic addition to any collection.  Antique