Only 10,000 of these "Plymouth" rifles were manufactured between 1861 and 1864 by Whitney under contract with the U.S. Navy based upon the recommendations of Captain (later Admiral) John A. Dahlgren of the U.S.S. Plymouth. Commanding officer's are known to have requested the Plymouth rifles over even more advanced firearms like the Spencer rifles due to the Model 1861's harder hitting caliber and better long range accuracy. This example is dated "1864" at the tail of the lock and has the second style small patriotic eagle motif over "U.S." and "WHITNEY-VILLE" stamped on the lock. The tang is numbered "7390" as is the hilt of the included Collins & Co. saber bayonet. The bayonet also includes a scabbard.

Fine with mostly bright surfaces, some minor pitting, and light scratches. The stock is fine and has numerous mild bruises and scratches, some small chips, and a crisp "HW" cartouche. The bayonet and scabbard are fair with stitching absent from the scabbard, patches of heavy pitting on the blade, and aged patina on the brass. Mechanically excellent. This is both a solid and exceptionally fine example of the rather scarce Whitney "Plymouth" rifles complete with its original, matching number bayonet.