Manufactured by the Perry Patent Firearms Co., Newark, New Jersey circa 1854 to 1856 with only an estimated few hundred manufactured. Marked "PERRY PATENT ARM CO/NEWARK N.J." and "A.D PERRY/PATENTED" on top of the breechblock, which is tipped up to load the chamber which lines up with capper feeding tube which extends from the butt. The top of the barrel is marked "REILLY 503 NEW OXFORD ST. LONDON." reading breech to muzzle and "CAST STEEL" at the breech reading from the muzzle. Light floral scroll engraving on the top of the breechblock, frame, lock, hammer, butt cap and back strap. First Type trigger guard/lever which follows the contour of the grip to the butt and then sharply curves up. Dovetailed brass blade front sight and fitted with smooth varnished two-piece walnut grips. Although they are almost indestructible they are quite rare today.

Good. The metal surfaces have a smooth mottled gray patina with moderate pitting on the lever. The grips are good with much of the original varnish remaining, showing a moderate chip on the left toe, a crack on the right toe and some scattered minor dents and scratches. The trigger guard/lever does not lock up into place, otherwise the action functions well. The markings and engraving are clear.