This rifle is one of just an estimated 700 1st Type Model 1870s manufactured c. 1870 from converted percussion straight breech rifles, a New Model 1859 in this case. There were also another 300 2nd Types made with Model 1874 style actions and another 308 made as carbines. They were made for field trials after the 1870 Board to select a breech loading rifle. It has an armory bright barrel with a military pattern front sight that doubles as a socket bayonet lug, a blued notch and folding ladder rear sight, the serial number on the left at the breech and on top of the upper receiver tang, armory bright barrel bands, nose cap, military style cleaning rod and "US" marked buttplate, casehardened action and breech block, the Sharps and Lawrence patent markings on the lock and frame, small single letter inspection initials on some components, oval script "ESA" cartouche of Springfield Master Armorer Erskine S. Allin, and sling swivels on the upper barrel band and bottom of the buttstock. Includes a "US" marked socket bayonet and a "U.S." marked brown leather sling.

Very good, with mostly bright barrel and components, strong traces of original case colors showing in protected areas of the breech block with otherwise smooth gray patina on the balance, scattered areas of dark colored light pitting and oxidation, a structural crack visible on top of the upper receiver tang running through the front screw, and mostly defined markings. Wood is also very good with numerous scattered dents and scratches, an absent forearm screw, and a legible cartouche. Mechanically excellent.