Chassepot Mle 1866 needle gun.

Chassepot Mle 1866 needle gun, Cahen-Lyon 1867.Manufacturer A. Francotte in Liege on behalf of Cahan-Lyon. Cal. 11mm Chassepot needle cartridge. Year of manufacture 1867. Ser. No. U94517. Matching numbers. Even the cleaning rod has the same number! The bore is sharp-edged and almost bright (slight residues). The metal parts have external stains, patina, and the finest scratches. All stamps on the metal are deep and clear. The beautiful stock with very well-preserved deep markings! The seal is original. (I will provide a new seal and an additional needle, so nothing stands in the way of potential shooting). Well-functioning lock with a strong spring. Fully functional rifle. This rifle! It was tested in the rifle factory in Chatellerault in 1869 and accepted for the French army. (Epreuve des Manufactures Impériales Chatellerault 1869). This is signed on the left side of the mechanism. Further acceptance with the round stamp on the right side of the stock. So, year of manufacture 1867, and acceptance and introduction into the French army in 1869.The bayonet has been with this rifle since 1871 and is not matching numbers. It simply belongs with it.The rifle has a currently valid Belgian proof mark on the underside (see photo).The company Cahen from Lyon took on the order to sell 100,000 rifles to the French state. Rifles were ordered and manufactured in various foreign factories. The company A. Francotte produced only 580 pieces in 1867. Total 28,155 pieces.Rare manufacturer!The previous owner acquired this rifle from a family, where this rifle with bayonet belonged to an ancestor of the participants in the Battle of Tuileries and was brought back from there.The rifle is 158 years old and in this condition! Free from 18 years!Product safety information:This is an antique and collector's item!