This Model 1859 Sharps rifle was manufactured in the serial number range (35000-57000) of the rifles produced for the 1st and 2nd U.S. Sharpshooter Regiments (Berdan's Sharpshooters) in 1862. The Ordnance Department's initial order was for standard Model 1859 rifles, but Colonel Hiram Berdan contacted the factory and requested a dull barrel finish and double set triggers. The factory assumed Berdan had permission for the changes and began producing rifles for the unit to his specifications, but once the Ordnance Department got word, they insisted that they would not pay for additional rifles in the altered configuration and the remaining rifles were shipping in the standard configuration. It has a blade front sight, lug for a saber bayonet, Lawrence patent folding ladder rear sight, and standard markings. Only 1,500 Army contract and 2,800 Navy contract Model 1859 rifles were equipped with lugs for saber bayonets.

Fair as refinished. The rifle displays a mix of artificial brown patina and blue finish and has some patches of minor pitting. The period revarnished wood has various scrapes and dents from use in the field. Most of the markings are crisp, and the action functions fine.