The factory letter confirms this rifle was invoiced on July 26, 1855, as a factory "finely engraved" sporting rifle with a .44 caliber (60 bore) round barrel. Frank Sellers on page 49 of "Sharps Firearms" indicates only two 60 bore, round barrel, fine engraved sporting rifles were manufactured out of 2,970 Model 1853 Sporting rifles manufactured in July 8, 1854-December 1859. The engraving was likely executed by Gustave Young or his shop. It has a German silver blade front sight with dovetailed steel base, notch and folding ladder rear sight, Sharps Hartford address ahead of the rear sight, matching serial numbers on the barrel and upper tang, scrollwork engraving on the breech end of the barrel nearly all of the action, the lever, and the lower tang; the "1848" patent on the top of the action, "1852" patent on the lock, smooth stock and forearm, and brass buttplate cut for a patch box.

Fair with crude period replacement wood and lock, signs of aggressive cleaning, and a mix of gray and brown patina and mild pitting throughout. Most of the engraving remains clear with the exception of the replaced lock plate which is not engraved. Many of the markings are faint. The wood is fair and has mild scratches and marks throughout, a repaired chip below the lock, smaller chips and flakes at some of the edges, and some attractive figure. Mechanically fine.