Manufactured in 1875. This First Model 1873 features the distinctive dust cover held in place by grooved guides on either side of the top of the receiver, raised checkered oval finger grip on top of the dust cover and the lever latch with the visible screw threads. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two line address/King's improvement patent dates, the model designation is on the upper tang and the serial number on the lower tang. Folding globe front and adjustable rear sporting type sights, with a long range tang mounted peep sight. Special order half magazine and adjustable single set trigger, and mounted with checkered walnut forearm and straight grip stock with sling swivel eye mounted on the steel end cap and stock, and crescent buttplate with compartment, (cleaning rod not included). The accompanying factory letter verifies the rifle configuration, round barrel, set trigger, checkered stock, peep and beach sights, sling studs, "SM", that it was received in the warehouse on May 7, 1875 and shipped out on May 10, 1875.

Fine. The barrel retains 40% of the original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The magazine tube retains 70% thin original blue finish, The receiver retains 40% plus original high polish mixed with a smooth plum brown patina. The hammer retains most of the original faded case colors and the lever has a smooth mottled gray patina with strong original case colors in protected areas. The wood has been revarnished and remains very good with scattered minor dents and dings, and crisp checkering. The otherwise fine action needs some minor work, when the lever is cycled, the hammer doesn't hold the cock position, but does when manually cocked. The markings are clear.