This is a fine example of a documented Sharps Model 1874 Sporting Rifle. This particular rifle was manufactured in 1877. The top barrel flat is marked "Old Reliable" in a box and "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT. CONN." ahead of the rear sight and "CALIBRE 44" at the breech, with "2 5/8" on the right flat near the breech with a "7" stamped over it. The left side of the receiver is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO / PAT APR 6 1869", the lock is unmarked and the serial number is marked on the top of the receiver. Blade front and ladder style rear sight absent of yard graduation markings, tang mounted mid-range peep sight, single trigger, blue barrel and casehardened remaining parts, and mounted with smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a checkered iron buttplate. The accompanying factory letter addressed to Mr. Hank Williams Jr., Paris, Tennesse verifies the serial number, 30" octagon barrel, 44 caliber, globe and peep sights, that 250, 44-90-405 cartridges were sent with the gun which was shipped to a Mr. F. Taylor Piggott, care of E.E. Eaton, a Sharps dealer in Chicago, Illinois on September 25, 1877.

Very fine. The barrel retains 75% original blue finish with some areas thinning to a smooth plum patina and high edge wear. The crisp receiver and hammer have a smooth mottled gray patina with traces of the original case colors in protected areas. The lever has a smooth dark patina. The wood also remains very fine with a few small minor gouges on the left rear of the stock and overall some scattered minor dings and dents. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.