Manufactured from 1853 to 1855 by Robbins & Lawrence of Windsor, Vermont, with a total production of approximately 4,997. This is the earliest Sharps Model with the distinctive "slanting breech" and is fitted with the lever hinge pin retaining spring mounted on the right rear of the forearm. The top of the barrel at the breech is marked "ROBBINS &/LAWRENCE", the upper tang "C. SHARPS/PATENT/1848" followed by the serial number and the lock is marked "SHARPS/PATENT/1852". The matching serial number is marked on the underside of the barrel and back of the breechblock with the inside of the patch box door marked "457". Brass blade front and folding squirrel ear rear sight, sling swivel mounted on the brass barrel band and left side of the frame, and mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with brass patch box (extra percussion nipple inside) and carbine buttplate. Comes with a small wooden plaque with "MODEL 1852 SLANTBREECH/PELLET PRIMED" marked brass plate.

Good as refinished with an artificial brown on the metal surfaces. The brass has an attractive aged "mustard yellow" patina. The wood has been lightly sanded and varnished and remains very good with a few pressure dents and scratches. The markings are clear. The action is fine.