SERIAL NUMBER 2121 BARREL 21 1/2" CALIBER 11MM WERDER ( 11X50R) MANUFACTURED 1874.The Gendarmerie Werder Short Rifle. The Bavarians contracted with August Francotte of Liege for manufacture and ordered 2,639 such rifles. The Werder Gendarmerie rifle M1869/73 was not only carried by the police, but also by customs formations. In 1874 an additional 600 rifles were ordered to equip the Zollwache (customs officers) as well as 100 more rifles for the General Customs Administration. In 1875, 50 more rifles were ordered for the rural police. Thus the total production of the Gendarmerie rifle officially came to 3,389 examples. Being an exceptionally rare Bavarian Carbine manufactured by August Francotte and so marked on top of barrel, with matching serial numbers. Also has the "GF" inspection of the receiver bridge. CONDITION, Very good with excellent bright bore and properly operating action. Metal remains Armory Bright with crisp markings. The stock is oil finished with a very light indiscernible cartouche on right side of butt. ANTIQUE