Hello.
Please Log In, or .

Home
Auctions
Consignment
Latest
FAQ
About us

Lot 1236:Civil War Phoenix Iron Co. U.S. 3-Inch Ordnance Rifle

May 3rd, 2025|Bedford, TX
Estimated Price$35,000 - $55,000
Share

1862 Dated Civil War Phoenix Iron Co. U.S. 3-Inch Ordnance Rifle with Carriage

This cannon was manufactured by the Phoenix Iron Company of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, just northwest of Philadelphia and inspected in 1862 by Union inspector Theodore Thadeus Sobieski Laidley. The company produced most (around 1,000) of the 3-Inch Ordnance Rifles. Many of the roughly 350 surviving 3-Inch Ordnance Rifles lie within national historic sites/military parks, according to page 123 of "Field Artillery Weapons of the Civil War" by Hazlett, Olmstead and Parks". This model, invented by John Griffen, was reported to be very accurate under a mile. These were the second most common rifled field artillery pieces during the Civil War, and only one burst in action. These early rifles were made using John Griffen’s method, which used wrought iron rods bundled and then heat-welded together before drilling out the bore. "T.T.S.L. No. 368 P.I. Co. 1862/816 lbs" marked on the muzzle, and "US" on top between the trunnions. Features seven-groove rifling and a pinched blade front sight. Includes a reproduction carriage by Historical Ordnance Works and accoutrements.

ConditionFine as professionally restored by Historical Ordnance Works with applied black paint, some light pitting overall, and crisp markings as well as showing signs of authentic period field use such as worn vent and good rifling. Carriage is very fine and sturdy overall.
Details
ManufacturerPhoenix Iron Company
Model3-Inch Ordnance Rifle
TypeOther
Serial number
ClassOther
Caliber / Gauge3 inch
Barrel68 inch round
Finishblack
Bore conditionThe bore is darkened with pitting and visible rifling.

Item LocationBedford, TX
Views430
Catalog page228