Only an estimated 3,544 early production Model 1855 percussion rifles were made at Harper's Ferry with brass furniture, including two barrel bands, between 1857 and 1860. The brass mounted rifles also had browned barrels and casehardened locks unlike the later iron mounted rifles which were finished bright. A total of 8,700 Model 1855 rifles were manufactured prior to Confederate forces capturing and burning the arsenal in April 1861. 2,800 of the 3,450 rifles in the arsenal during the Confederate attack were destroyed. Most of those that survived would have seen hard use throughout the war, and many more would have been likely been destroyed in combat. It is dated "1857" on the lock and has a matching "U.S. 1857" marking on the barrel. The lock also has the U.S. seal on the primer door and "U.S./HARPERS,FERRY" at the front. The buttplate is not marked, and the barrel has the standard "V/P/eagle" proof markings. There are no visible inspector initials or cartouches. The rifle is equipped with a blade front sight, saber bayonet stud, and adjustable rear sight with notch and folding ladder. A correct iron ramrod is fitted bellow the barrel and sling swivels are appropriately attached to the upper barrel band, and front of the trigger guard. A spare nipple is in the patch box.

Very good plus. The barrel displays an even blend of professionally applied brown and gray patina. There is some very slight spotting. The lock has been lightly cleaned and has faint case colors and minor marks. The brass hardware is dark in color. The lock is mechanically excellent. The markings throughout are crisp. The re-oiled stock finish is very dark, and the edges are exceptionally crisp. This is a rare opportunity to get your hands on one of the highly desirable surviving examples of the scarce brass mounted Harpers Ferry Model 1855.