Make: E. Remington & Sons

Model: Rolling Block

Serial Number: NSNV (No Serial Number Visible)

Year of Manufacture: Pre 1899

Caliber: .43 Spanish

Action Type: Single-Shot Rolling Block Rifle

Markings: The top tang clearly shows the three-line Remington address:
"E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION, N.Y. U.S.A. / PAT. MAY 3D NOV 15TH 1864 APRIL 17TH 1866 / AUG 27TH 1867 NOV 7TH 1871."

Barrel Length: Approximately 35”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a ladder-style sight adjustable for elevation, typical of military Rolling Block rifles.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The walnut buttstock features unique custom trench art carvings, adding historical character. The wood shows moderate dings, scratches, handling marks, and areas of wear consistent with field use and age. The stock remains structurally solid but rates in Fair to Good condition overall. The rifle has brass barrel bands, a brass nose cap, and retains the original full-length brass ramrod.

Type of Finish: Originally "In-the-White" (now exhibiting patina)

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with clearly defined rifling, showing minor erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates approximately 8/10.

Overall Condition: The metal surfaces, originally finished in-the-white, now display natural patina with areas of oxidation, erosion, and mild corrosion consistent with age and exposure. Brass fittings (barrel bands, nose cap, full-length brass ramrod) show an attractive aged patina. The receiver and barrel remain structurally sound with clearly legible tang markings. Overall, this rifle rates in Good antique condition.

Mechanics: The action functions properly. The rolling block mechanism locks securely, and the hammer and breechblock operate smoothly. As with all vintage firearms, a thorough inspection and cleaning are recommended prior to firing.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment:
The Remington Rolling Block rifle was renowned globally for its simplicity, durability, and reliability, widely adopted by numerous countries in the late 19th century. This example, chambered in .43 Spanish, was likely produced for export and saw active use internationally.

Notable features of this rifle include attractive brass furniture (full-length brass ramrod, barrel bands, and nose cap), indicative of a possible special-order or foreign contract variation. The unique trench art carved into the walnut buttstock provides additional historical appeal and insight into its former owner's experiences.

Although the wood is worn to Fair-Good condition, and the metal surfaces have aged naturally with patina and corrosion, the rifle retains a strong, shootable bore and fully functional mechanics. Collectors of military arms, Rolling Block rifles, or historical firearms with personalization will find this example especially interesting.