4,021 of these dual purpose pistol-carbines were manufactured. They were designed to be used as pistols when on horseback and as carbines when dismounted but did not prove satisfactory due to their limited rate of fire, poor accuracy, and awkward handling characteristics as pistols. The Maynard tape priming system was also found to be a weak spot and was abandoned by the U.S. military after the Model 1855 series. While these aspects proved to undermine the system and made their production run short, it has made them particularly desirable collector's items. They are one of only three handguns ever manufactured at Springfield; a distinction they share with the venerable Model 1911 and Model 1817 flintlock, and were the last single shot pistols manufactured at the national armories. Surviving examples and images from the period indicate they saw use in the Civil War. This example has the standard markings and features and is dated "1855" dates on the barrel tang and "1856" on the lock. The pommel cap is stamped "16," and a "1" is marked on the stock collar.

Very good with mottled gray patina, minor oxidation, and light and mild pitting on the steel, aged patina on the pistol's brass, and age blackening of much of the brass on the shoulder stock. The re-oiled and repaired pistol stock is fine and has mild scrapes and dents, a fairly light but legible cartouche, and a splice at the nose of the lock. The buttstock is very good and has small chips at the toe and some minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically fine.