This is an example of a Sharps Model 1849 Rifle (a.k.a. 1st Model Sharps) that was manufactured by Albert S. Nippes of Mill Creek, Pennsylvania, for Christian Sharps in 1849. Very few Sharps Model 1849 Rifles were manufactured; estimates of total production is approximately 150. According to "Sharps Firearms" by Frank Sellers, page 17, the lowest serial number observed is 2 and the highest 152, also stating "it could be assumed that the numbering sequence was started at 1 and continued consecutively throughtout production: this would indicate a production of approximately 150 rifles." The rifle features the distinctive brass circular disk automatic capping device on the right side of the breech. The top of the Damascus barrel is marked "MANUFACTURED/BY/A.S. NIPPES/PHILADA PA" followed by the serial number "166", all behind the rear sight. The half octagon barrel gauges at 52 caliber percussion, is equipped with fixed sights and has an iron solid rib on the underside with two iron ramrod pipes holding a hickory brass tipped ramrod. The action has a trigger guard with separate breech lever that curves over the guard. The top of the receiver is stamped with a faint patent date marking. The elongated lock plate has a curved profile. The buttstock is fitted with a brass buttplate and patch box. The walnut forearm has a German silver tip and is secured by a wedge. There is a brass screw escutcheon for the capping device on the left side of the forearm.

Fair as partially refinished. The rifle has a smooth gray patina with a darker patina on the action components. The barrel retains traces of the Damascus pattern. There is minor pitting (mostly on the barrel). The rear tang is braised and has evidence of draw filing marks covered with artificial brown. The brass is fine. The wood is very good with a period replacement buttstock and a number of minor handling marks. Action does not function.