The Lee Arms Co. contracted with Sharps to manufacture a contract of 300 rifles James Paris Lee had been granted by the U.S. Navy for his patented rifle. This example is one of just 1,300 manufactured by Remington for the U.S. Navy using the earlier Sharps machinery. This example is marked "THE LEE ARMS Co. BRIDGEPORT CONN. U.S.A. / PATENTED NOV. 4TH 1879" on top of the left receiver rail followed by the serial number. The magazine is the correct early flat sided version with the correct cut-off device on the left. The barrel is fitted with a blade/bayonet stud front sight and a folding ladder rear sight graduated 1-5 on the base and 6-12 on the ladder. The barrel is marked with "P/ W.M.F./anchor" at the breech. It is fitted with a smooth straight grip walnut stock with two "U" marked barrel bands, a slotted cleaning rod, sling swivels, smooth buttplate, and "103" stamped on the right side of the butt.

Fine as partially refinished and polished bright. There are some patches of pin-prick type pitting and light spotting. The stock is fine as revarnished with some minor chips and pressure dents. The action is excellent.