This is an example of a very desirable Sharps Model 1874 Sporting Rifle. Manufactured in 1878. The top barrel flat is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO. HARTFORD CONN." ahead of the rear sight, with "Old Reliable" trademark (very faint), and "CALIBRE 40" behind the rear sight. The side barrel flat at the breech is marked with a small "70.". The upper left flat has had what appears to be a social security number lightly and crudely scratched into it. The barrel is fitted with a dovetail mounted front sight with a small brass blade and folding ladder Lawrence patent rear sight absent of graduation markings. The left side of the receiver is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO./PAT APR 6 1869" and the serial number is stamped on top of the receiver. The lock is correctly without markings. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel under the forearm and the forearm is marked "7722". Also on the bottom of the barrel is "4 15/16". Double set triggers and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a checkered steel buttplate. The accompanying factory letter states that serial number 157722 was invoiced to Sharp's dealer J. Griffith and Sons in Louisville, Kentucky on August 9,1878. It further verified the caliber, 28 inch half octagon barrel, open sights, double set triggers and oil finished stock.

Fine. The barrel retains 50% original blue finish mixed with smooth plum patina. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth mottled gray patina with a small area of original case colors on top of the breechblock. The wood is fine with overall scattered minor dents, dings and scratches, and lightly scratched "MP" on the left side of the stock. Unless noted above, the markings are clear. The action is fine.