47,115 Model 1855 rifle-muskets were manufactured at Springfield Armory between 1857-1861, 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. It has standard markings and features including an "1859" dated lock and barrel, eagle and shield motif on the primer door, front sight doubling as a bayonet lug, rear sight with flip-up leafs, iron fittings, left stock flat stamped with a boxed script "JS" inspection cartouche, and "US" marked buttplate tang.

Very good plus, in attic fresh condition, with scattered dark colored light to mild pitting, and otherwise defined markings and edges in the metal. Stock is also very good with scattered scratches and dents, a few small chips, a crack visible behind the lock, and defined edges. Mechanically excellent.