This example was manufactured in 1876 with the First Model's distinctive dust cover with checkered oval thumb rest fitted in guide grooves on the top of the frame. Later models had a center rail and transitioned to a dust cover with serrations at the end. It features German silver blade front and elevation adjustable rear sights. The barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking on the top. The upper tang is stamped "MODEL 1873" while the lower tang has the serial number; both are in script. The brass cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." The barrel, full length magazine, forearm cap, receiver and dust cover are blue. The loading gate has a nitre blue finish. The hammer, trigger and buttplate are color casehardened. It is fitted with a full length magazine, smooth forearm with cap and straight grip stock with crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included).

Fine. The rifle retains 60% bright original blue finish on the receiver with the balance a smooth brown patina. The loading gate retains 40% original niter blue. The hammer, buttplate and lever retain 60% original case colors. The barrel and magazine tube retains 95% plus of a professionally restored blue with the barrel address having been recent. The revarnished wood is also fine with a couple very small chips missing near the upper tang and some scattered minor pressure dents and scratches. Mechanically excellent.