This rifle was part of a contract of 10,000 rifles manufactured by Whitney for the U.S. Navy. The contract was completed in 1864. These "Plymouth" rifles were designed under the recommendation of Captain John A. B. Dahlgren and were tested on the U.S.S. Plymouth in the mid-to late 1850s. The bowie style bayonet was also recommended by Dahlgren and was intended as a multi-purpose large knife but was presented to the Navy as a bayonet to gain approval for their manufacture. In Dahlgren's own words to his officers, "…the principle use of which I designed to be in the hand in close conflict, such as boarding. In campaigning it would also serve many wants; but it may be fixed and used as a bayonet." The barrel tang is stamped with the serial number, and the left side of the barrel is stamped "F.C.W" below the "V/P/eagle head" proofs. The top of the barrel is dated "1863". The lock is marked with the eagle and shield, "U.S./WHITNEY-VILLE", and is dated "1864" vertically behind the hammer. There is an oval "HW" cartouche on the stock and the buttplate is marked "US" on the tang. Includes a bowie bayonet (not compatible as never factory fitted like the saber bayonets) that is marked "AMES MFg Co/CHICOPEE./MASS." on the right ricasso, "USN/D.R/anchor/1363" on the left, and an oval "DR" and anchor on the pommel.

Fine, showing mostly a bright silver-grey patina with some patches of darker grey. The reoiled wood is also fine with some scattered minor dings, scratches, and chips. The cartouche and other markings are legible. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is very good with extensive patches of brown patina on the blade and the brass and clear markings (no scabbard). A desirable Civil War rifle along with an even more desirable bayonet that could easily be the centerpiece of any Civil War collection.