Reportedly, 11,471 of these innovative rifles were manufactured by the Spencer Repeating Rifle Company of Boston, Massachusetts, with known deliveries to the U.S Ordnance Department between December 31, 1862 through 1863, with serial numbers of Spencer 1860 rifles commencing at 1000, according to related information on page 48 of the book "Spencer Repeating Firearms" (1983) by Roy Marcot. The rifle features a 30-inch round barrel, seven-shot magazine tube in the stock, a blade front sight that doubles as a bayonet lug, an 800 yard folding ladder rear sight, six-groove rifling chambered for use with 56-52 "52 Spencer" rimfire, three barrel bands, and the three-line Spencer address and patent marking on top of the breech. The matching serial number "9578" is roll-stamped on the top of the receiver and on the bottom of the barrel. Two bordered scrip inspection cartouches stamped on the left stock wrist.

Fine, retains 60% original blue finish on the barrel with smooth brown patina on the balance, 30% plus vivid original case colors strongest in protected areas with the exposed surfaces of the frame exhibiting a smooth silvery patina, with scattered light freckling and some patches of light pitting, and defined markings and edges in the metal. Wood is also fine with defined edges, some scattered dents, nicks and scratches, and defined cartouches. Mechanically excellent.