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 correct standard markings and features and is dated "1855" on the barrel tang and "1856" on the lock. The pommel cap is stamped "3," and a "6" is assembly marked on the stock collar.

Very good with a blend of gray and brown patinas and minor pitting on the barrel and lock, natural aged patina on the furniture, loose fit of the shoulder stock resulting in impressions on the stock wrist, some hairline cracks, and general minor pressure marks and scratches. The cartouches are very faint, but the other markings are distinct. Mechanically fine.