This is an extremely rare example of a Confederate Model 1855 Pattern rifle that was manufactured at the former Armory at Fayetteville, North Carolina. The Fayetteville Rifles were manufactured using parts and machinery captured from the U.S. Arsenal at Harpers Ferry. This is the standard late production 'Type IV' Rifle that had a total production of only about 5,000. The Type IV Rifles feature a low profile lock plate, brass buttplate, trigger guard, barrel bands and forearm cap. The lock plate is dated "1864" behind the hammer and marked with an eagle over "C.S.A." followed by "FAYETTEVILLE" ahead of the hammer. The top of the barrel is dated "1864" at the breech, (partially obscured by pitting), and the left side of the barrel is stamped with "V/P/ Eagle head" proof and inspection marks. The buttplate tang is stamped "CSA" ahead on the top screw. The right side of the barrel bands have the standard "U" marking. Blade front sight and the rear sight have been removed. Mounted with an oil finished full walnut stock with a faint cartouche on the left flat. With a correct straight-shank iron ramrod with tulip head. These rifles lack the brass patch box and sword bayonet lug found on earlier Fayetteville Rifles. The Fayetteville Rifle was a high quality weapon that represented an improvement of the Model 1855 Harpers Ferry Rifle which it was based on.

Very good plus. The metal surfaces have a dark patina and the remnants of a black protective coating. There is some flash pitting on and around the bolster. The brass components have a black protective coating with a dark aged patina on the exposed brass. The stock is also very good with a lightly scratches "TOW" on the right side of the buttstock, and overall some minor dents, dings and scuffs. Unless noted above, the markings are clear. The action is fine. This is an attractive looking example of an important and widely used Confederate Fayetteville Rifle.