Originally manufactured between 1878 and 1881 before being subsequently custom built into the current configuration by gunsmith J. A. (Bo) Clerke later in the 20th Century. The rifle is built with a bright steel barrel featuring dual scope blocks holding a J. W. Fecker scope, "J. A. CLERKE" marked on the left of the chamber area, and the caliber "30-40 KRAG" marked on the right. The barrel is fitted to the casehardened Sharps 1878 Borchardt action which displays attractive flowing Acanthus scroll engraving with a bison on the top side, and extending to the lever and both tangs. The upper tang has two empty drilled and tapped holes, presumably for a tang sight (not included). The rifle is fitted with a beautifully figured French walnut, deeply carved and checkered forend with "CLERKE/FREE FOR A BLAST" in banners over a crest with "AMAT VICTORIA CURAM" (victory loves preparation) below as well as a pistol grip stock with monogram carved in the end of the grip, raised cheekpiece, and an engraved blued steel buttplate.

Very fine as elaborately custom embellished overall, showing some discoloration on the bright barrel, vivid case colors on the action, and sharp carving and checkering on the exceptionally fine custom stock and forend. Mechanically excellent. The scope optics are bright and clear.