Manufactured in 1875 as a first model with the distinctive dust cover held in place by grooved guides on either side of the top of the receiver, raised checkered oval finger grip on top of the dust cover and the lever latch with the visible screw threads. The action is fitted with a special order single set trigger. Period replaced copper blade in front sight and elevation adjustable rear sights on a barrel marked with the two-line address/patent dates information. The rifle properly lacks caliber markings. "MODEL 1873" is marked on the upper tang. Mounted on a nicely figured and checkered forearm and straight grip stock. The crescent buttplate has a compartment and contains a four-piece cleaning rod. The lower left side of the lower tang is marked "XXX 552." "552" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Very good, retaining traces of original blue and silvered out case colors in the protected areas, otherwise a smooth dark patina mixed with some minor pitting. The wood is very good showing a couple hairline cracks and missing small chips at frame juncture, a few filled blemishes, moderately worn checkering, and some minor dings and scratches. The set trigger does not function, otherwise the action cycles properly.