Fine Peabody Military Rifle -Contract Overrun

NSN, .50-60 RF, 36" barrel with an excellent, bright bore.  This is a very nice rifle that has retained 95-97% of the original blue on the barrel, with some mild fading at the muzzle, and slightly more (97-98%) of the original color case-hardening on the frame, hammer, and lever.  Some very slight fading is present on the high edges and projections.  The walnut forend has some numerous small handling marks in the original military oil finish, with slightly fewer marks in the wood on the buttstock.  The Providence Tool Co. inspector cartouches are still crisp and clear on the left side of the wrist.  Canada ordered about 5,000 Peabody rifles in .50-60 RF to arm their militia units, but did not take delivery of all of them.   It is possible that this rifle is one of those or one from another contract that was not filled.   It is in fine-excellent condition, and would make a wonderful addition to any collection.  Antique