Manufactured in 1874, the second year of production, as a first model with dust cover held in place with grooved guides, highly desirable raised checkered oval thumbprint grip on top of the dust cover and the lever latch with the visible screw threads. The accompanying Cody Firearms Records Office serial number confirmation lists this rifle with a 24 inch round barrel and special order set trigger when received in the warehouse on September 19, 1874, and shipped the same day. The barrel has the two-line address/patent dates marking, dovetail blade front sight and elevation adjustable rear sight. The rifle correctly lacks caliber markings. The upper tang is stamped "MODEL 1873." The straight grip stock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate.

Very good, retaining 80% period refinished blue with flaking turned gray on the balance. The wood is also very good with some minor handling evidence. Mechanically excellent. Overall a highly desirable First Model 1873 Rifle featuring a raised oval thumbprint grip with the added bonus of a special order set trigger.