Springfield Armory manufactured 4,021 of these distinctive, dual-purpose weapons between 1855-1857. They are one of only three handguns manufactured at Springfield, with intent to provide the U.S. Cavalry and dragoon regiments with weapons that could be used as carbines for dismounted action and as pistols for use on horseback. They are known to have been used into the Civil War, including by Confederate forces. This example has the standard blade front sight, three-leaf rear sight graduated to 400 yards on the upper tang, "V/P/eagle head" proofs stamped on the upper left at the breech, "1855" date marked on the upper tang and at the tail of the lock, with the federal eagle motif on the Maynard tape primer door, "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" at the front of the lock, brass furniture, a boxed script "JS" inspection cartouche stamped on the left stock flat, numbered "3" on the pommel, and numbered "7" on the collar of the included stock with "US" on the buttplate tang.

Very good, exhibiting smooth brown and gray patina on the iron with scattered freckling and a few patches of light pitting, and mostly defined markings in the metal. The brass surfaces show an attractive golden aged patina. Replacement primer door catch piece, replacement percussion nipple. Absent right ear on the 100 yard sight leaf. Stock is also very good, with scattered dents and scratches, a crack visible on the top front area of the left stock flat, outline marks from mounting of the shoulder stock, and a legible cartouche. Mechanically fine. Shoulder stock is also very good with scattered dents and scratches.