Boer War 1887 BSA Martini-Henry Carbine With Cartridge And Display Stand (Deactivated).

An 1887 Martini-Henry carbine rifle by the Birmingham Small Arms Company (BSA). The rifle bears numerous stamps and marks which tell the story of it's long and varied life.  To the right of the action body are the maker's marks as follows : The Victoria Crown above "V.R" (Victoria Regina) above "B.S.A & M.Co." (Birmingham Small Arms & Metals Company) above 1887 (manufacture date) above the BSA Crown with arrow to "II." (Mark II version).  British War Department stamps with military broad arrow to gunsight and lever.
To the top of the action body : "CG" (Cape Government) with military broad arrow above "S.X" (strengthened extractor). 
To the action body and barrel : SA Union Defense Force broad arrow stamps.  The colonial forces joined the UDF in 1912.  These marks are all consistent with long service in the military of South Africa before and after the Anglo-Boer War.
There are also numerous inspection stamps and "crossed flags" stamps (black powder proofing).  The butt stock and action body bear "Sold out of Service" marks, which consist of two broad arrows joined apex to apex. This is the point that the rifle would have left the military service.  The butt stock bears further stamps and probable dates, including "M.R.C."  I believe this stands for Mounted Rifle Club which were very popular in the Cape region in the 1920's and 30's.  Finally, there is a "D.P." (drill purpose) stamp which is the point that the rifle was used for cadet drill training, probably until the 1950's.
The overall condition of the rifle is good for it's 137 years with great patina and clear stamps.  Please note that there is a thin section of wood missing from the bottom of the fore stock (last picture above).  Fortunately, it's not visible when displayed.  I did consider restoring it but decided against it as it's in an unobtrusive position and I feel that it's part of the rifle's originality.
Included is an original lead bulleted "Boxer" cartridge (massive!) with a custom made solid wood display stand.  Please see thumbnail pics above for more detail.
Side note : BSA had a contract with the British Government to manufacture 53,100 Martin-Henry Mark II rifles in 1887.

Length (barrel) : 52cm

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Please view the following pictures carefully as they form part of the description: