Woodne M1903 shipping crate info?

[Rick the Librarian]

A gentleman on another forum emailed me about M1903 he has that is contained in what was aparently the crate it was shipped in. I have seen enough CMP/DCM cardboard shipping crates to know that this must predate them. Anyone have an idea as to the time frame these crates were used, or any other information?

It has the serial number of the rifle on the crate but all identification has long been worn off. The rifle contained (the serial number is the same as that on the crate) is unremarkable - a WWII rebuild, as you can see. With the modifications made to the rifle, the box would certainly post-date WWII.

Also, what would this add to thevalue/worth of the rifle? The owner does not have any paperwork connected with the rifle.

TIA!

Information

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[Pattern14]

The stamp on the box seems to read, "Small Arms 1 ea, Inserv S C". Just a guess that this might refer to a Navy Supply Corps inservice item. An Army item would probably be QC (Quartermaster Corps). The crate appears to be older than WWII or has just been badly abused.

[Rick the Librarian]

The serial number on the rate matches the rifle. I would believe "badly abused". I'm guessing maybe late-1940s or early 1950s?

[Johnny Peppers]

That is UNSERV or unserviceable that is stamped on the box. Virtually all of the issue firearms sold through the DCM were classified as unserviceable, including some that were new and unissued.

[Pattern14]

That is UNSERV or unserviceable that is stamped on the box. Virtually all of the issue firearms sold through the DCM were classified as unserviceable, including some that were new and unissued.

You're right. I assumed the first part of the U was a mark on the box. Time to get the glasses changed.