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" date marking at the tail of the lock and on top of the breech of the barrel, with the federal eagle motif on the primer door, "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" marked at the front of the lock, front sight doubling as a bayonet lug, rear sight with flip-up leafs, brass forend tip with iron remaining fittings, a bordered script "JS" inspection cartouche stamped on the left stock flat, and "US" marked buttplate tang. Provenance: The Andrew Singer Collection

Exceptionally fine, with mostly bright surfaces on the iron, some scattered areas of minor freckling, and absolutely sharp markings and edges. Stock is very fine with attractive original raised grain, some scattered dents and storage marks, distinct edges and an exceptionally crisp cartouche stamp. Mechanically excellent. This outstanding U.S. Springfield Model 1855 rifle-musket would make an excellent addition to any U.S. martial arms collection!