Only 102 Mid-Range No. 1 rifles were manufactured in January 1876 to November 1879, with only 36 of those made at the Hartford factory like this example, and a very small amount with 28 inch barrels. Considering the majority of Mid-Ranges were chambered in .40-70, this example being in .44-77 is considered rare and unusual. Per the included factory letter, this rifle, serial number 155948, was originally invoiced at the Bridgeport factory on June 16, 1876 to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham of New York City as a Model 1874 Mid-Range No. 1 rifle with a 28 inch full octagon barrel in .44 caliber, weight unlisted, and $73 net price. The letter indicates the order on this date consisted of three total Mid-Range No. 1 rifles in .44 caliber with 28 inch barrels, this one with full octagon barrel and the other two with half octagon barrels. According to consignor notes, Richard Labowskie, the writer of the factory letter, indicated the other two guns on the order were serial numbers 156023 and 156028 in .44-77. The lot is also accompanied by a factory letter for serial number 156028, a No. 1 Mid-Range with half octagon barrel, shipped on the same day June 16, 1876 to the same address, as part of the same order although not specified in the included letter. The rifle has a factory original dovetail mounted windage globe front sight with spirit level, "SHARPS RIFLE CO. HARTFORD CONN" markings ahead of the Lawrence patent rear sight, "CALIBRE 44" on top of the breech, "75" on the right of the breech (.44-75 Sharps caliber, aka .44-77), matching full serial number "155948" marked on the upper tang, bottom of the barrel, and inside the forearm channel along with "5948" marked on the interior of the buttplate, with non-matching serial number "156835" on the left of the factory original tang peep sight base, Sharp's patent marking on the left, and fitted with a checkered forend and pistol grip buttstock along with a nickel plated buttplate.

Exceptionally fine, retains 85% original blue finish with some thinning to a smooth brown patina on the balance, 85% original case colors, with some patches of light surface freckling, 85% original nickel plating on the buttplate with attractive bright patina, and sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. Wood is very fine with defined edges, some scattered dents and light scratches, and a few small nicks in the otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.