Adolphus Joseph Plate was a furniture maker and gold prospector before working in the firearms trade from 1850 to 1880. This rifle has blade and notch sights and "A.J. PLATE SAN FRANCISCO CAL." markings on the top of the barrel, scroll engraving on the lock and breech, banded patent breech, German silver wedge escutcheons, brass remaining furniture, double set triggers, and a checkered half stock with shadow line cheekpiece.

Good as period refinished (lock and breech) with gray and brown patina, patches of mild pitting, mild overall wear, crisp added engraving on the lock, right side of the bolster, and aged patina on the brass. The refinished stock has crisp checkering, and general light scratches and dings. Mechanically fine.