Manufactured from 1854 to 1857, approximately 850 of the two types of single shot breech loading pistols were manufactured by C. Sharps & Company. This pistol is a Second Type which is slightly larger overall than the First Type and is chambered 36 caliber. These were manufactured after the small frame single shot pistols and are numbered in the 470 to 950 range with a total production of about 350. The action is the dropping block, lever activated type based on the 1848 patent rifle and carbine. The percussion pellet priming device is integral with the frame, the mountings are iron with no forearm under the barrel and the pistol was finished blue with a casehardened breech, lever and hammer. Brass blade front sight, frame notch rear sight and two-piece smooth walnut grips. Matching numbers on the front strap, on the inside of the frame under the left grip and both grips. Marked "C. SHARPS & CO'S/RIFLE WORKS/PHILA. PA." on the right side of the frame below the hammer and marked "C. SHARPS/PATENT/1848" on the left side plate.

Fair. The pistol has a mottled gray patina with extensive moderate pitting overall. The markings are weak. The refinished grips are fair with some minor handling marks and retaining most of the finish. Mechanically fine.