Low Number 1903 Opinions Needed

[P51Mustang]

I have a 1903 Barreled receiver I bought years ago and totally forgot about. It is a Springfield 500,xxx with a 10/11 dated SA barrel. The following parts are there:

H marked Band
Front Sight
Rear sight base
Trigger Assembly

Bore is really nice and the muzzle is tight with an M2 ball round. The finish is pretty nice at around 80 percent or better of blue. What is something like this worth as a project. Is the barrel original? Also do you think it pays to build up or sell as is? TIA.....

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[rcathey]

Sell it as is. The cost to build a full rifle would put you in underwater.
Rifles are worth more as parts than as a whole unless it’s something REALLY rare.

Value is hard to say. You’d get the most out of breaking it up further.
The barrel sounds really nice so maybe $250.
Trigger assembly is a dime a dozen. Perhaps $20.
Receiver is harder to value. I’d say something like $100 or $150.

[John Beard]

The serial number and barrel date match. From a financial standpoint, the rifle is not worth buying the correct matching parts and restoring to original condition. Some collectors, however, welcome the challenge. What you choose to do with it is a matter of personal preference. I'll let others comment on value.

J.B.

p.s.,

I strongly discourage separating the barrel and receiver. Not smart!!!

[P51Mustang]

Thanks for your input!

[Sunray]

"...strongly discourage separating the barrel and receiver..." Absolutely. You'd still have a low numbered rifle that is considered unsafe to shoot.
Rock Island Auctions had a 1911 '03 in near mint condition they thought was worth up to $9500. Sold for $8625. Yours isn't a whole rifle and it'd cost a fortune, you'd never get back, to make it one.