Between 1857-1861, 47,115 Model 1855 rifle-muskets were manufactured at Springfield Armory, and another 12,158 were manufactured at Harpers Ferry. The Model 1855 was the first U.S. martial arm designed for use with Minie bullets in .58 caliber, giving it a considerable advantage in accuracy and effective range over earlier military rifles. These rifles were widely used in the Civil War and first saw action in the Coeur d'Alene War in the Pacific Northwest in 1858. This example has an "1858" dated lock and barrel with standard markings and early features including the standard front sight/bayonet lug, early long range style rear sight graduated 1-4 on the base and 5-8 on the ladder, all iron fittings aside from the brass forend cap, partly visible script inspection cartouches stamped on the left stock flat, and "US" marked buttplate tang.

Good, with lightly cleaned iron surfaces, some scattered light pitting and freckling, and visible markings. Stock is also good as lightly sanded and re-oiled, with some light scratches. Mechanically excellent.