This is one of 2,000 New Model 1859 Military rifles issued to Col. Hiram Berdan's 1st and 2nd Regiments of U.S. Sharpshooters in 1862. The rifle falls within the early serial number range of those in the upper 30,000's, (Sellers), and is equipped with the double set triggers. The top of the barrel is marked "SHARP'S RIFLE / MANUFG CO. / HARDFORD CONN" ahead of the rear sight and "NEW MODEL 1859" behind the rear sight. The left side of the frame is marked "C.SHARPS' PAT. / SEP. 12TH1848" and the lock is marked "R.S.LAWRENCE PAT. / APRIL 12TH 1859" and "C. SHARPS' PAT. / OCT.5TH 1859", the rear sight spring is marked " R.S.LAWRENCE / PATENTED / FEB 15TH 1859 and "R. S. LAWRENCE / DEC. 2Oth 1859 and "H. CONANT / PATENT / APR 1, 1856" on the back of the breech block. The serial number is marked on the upper tang. The inside of the buttplate is marked with a "V" on the tang and "83" on the toe. There are no visible markings on the patch box. The barrel was blue, frame, lock, hammer, lever and iron mountings are casehardened. Brass blade front sight, adjustable rear sight graduated to 800 yards, full forearm with an iron end cap and three barrel bands with a sling swivel on the middle band and on the stock.

Very good overall. All metal parts have a smooth brownish or dark patina with some very light pitting on the barrel along the forearm. The wood is very good. There are a series of small dents along the top of the comb and there are signs of some sanding in the wrist area, otherwise overall scattered minor dents and nicks. All of the markings are clear and crisp. Mechanically excellent. Overall a nice example of an early New Model 1859 Berdan rifle.