Manufactured circa 1859 to 1866, approximately 4,300 of these New Model 1859 military rifles were contracted to the government (1,500 Army and 2,800 Navy). Marked "SHARPS RIFLE / MANUFG. CO / HARTFORD, CONN" ahead of the rear sight and "NEW MODEL 1859" at the breech on top of the barrel. Blade front sight, R.S. Lawrence patent rear sight graduated to 800 yards, three barrel bands with sling swivel on the middle band, iron patch box and single trigger. The standard two line Sharps patent dates are marked on the left side of the receiver and lock, with the R.S. Lawrence patent date also on the lock. It is equipped with a lug for a sword bayonet, mounted with a full forearm with iron end cap, straight grip stock with the number "78" stamped on the comb directly ahead of the buttplate tang. There is a small "A.W.M." stamped on the bottom of the forearm at the breech. Complete with a matching Ames sword bayonet with 21 7/8" blade and one piece brass handle with the matching serial number stamped on the flat side of the handle. The blade is dated "1861". With leather scabbard with brass throat and tip.

Very fine. The barrel retains 75% plus original blue finish thinning to a smooth plum on the muzzle end, with a few minor dings and scratches and some light spotting. The receiver and lock retain 50% original case colors mixed with a smooth gray patina. The lever has a smooth dark patina and the patch box and buttplate have a smooth mottled gray and brown patina. The wood is also very fine with a few overall scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. The scabbard is very good with age cracking and flaking. The bayonet is fine showing no signs of ever being sharpened, signs of some cleaning and a natural, untouched aged patina on the brass. Truly an outstanding Sharps in 1859 with matching bayonet!