A Boer war era, Belgian made commercial copy of the full length British military service rifle, in relic "dug-up"/"veld found" condition. Before the Boer republics ordered Mausers after the Jameson raid of 1895-96, the 577/450. Martini Henry was one of, if not the most common rifle in the two Boer republics. They were immensely popular for their accuracy and hard hitting .45 caliber bullets, which proved their effectiveness during the first Anglo-Boer war, and the throughout the many "Native campaigns" that came after. British Military Martini rifles were not they only rifles of their kind in South Africa. Many European made copies, from countries such as Austria and Belgium, were exported to South Africa where they were eagerly bought by burghers of the Boer republics. This is one of those types of rifles, and features Belgian "Perron" and "ELG" proof marks.
What makes this rifle special is its condition. Both its lever and barrel has been bent. This was done to render the rifle inoperable, very likely by British forces during the second Anglo-Boer war. The rust that this rifle has accumulated is off course and indication of the many decades it spent out in the open veld. It is highly likely that this rifle was surrendered to, or captured by, British forces during the second Anglo-Boer War, after which it would have been rendered inoperable, as mentioned previously, and then either buried, burned, or discarded in the veld.
The receiver has been de-rusted, but the barrel still has its original coat of uniform rust from years in the open veld.
The rifle is fully deactivated with a plugged and welded barrel, but has the novelty of still having its breech block and lever free to move.
This rifle would make an amazing display piece or "wall hanger".
