James Millar (Miller) (1800-1849) received the included patent for the design of this early American revolving rifle on June 11, 1829. This is one of the earliest American patents for revolving arms and pre-dates Samuel Colt's famous 1836 patent by several years. Millar and his brother John Jr. were gunsmiths in Rochester, New York, but soon moved to Michigan. Collectors have long associated the design more strongly with Billinghurst, but over a dozen different gunmakers are known to have produced "Miller Patent" revolving rifles. The Millar/Miller marked examples are particularly rare and desirable. The seven-groove rifled barrel has a small blade front sight and a notch rear sight and is marked "J.&J. MILLER/ROCHESTER" on top at the breech. The cylinder is smooth, and the front cover has the small vent holes. The furniture is plain brass. The small German silver inlay on the wrist is hand marked with the letters "H C" or "H G." A brass hunter's star is inlaid on the cheekpiece of the "Kentucky rifle" style full-stock. Replacement ramrod.

Very good with gray and brown patina on the iron, minor oxidation, aged patina on the furniture, and mild overall wear. Aside from a few chips, the wood is also very good and has mild overall wear. Mechanically fine.