Only 98 of the 10 Inch Model 1840 Mortars were manufactured during the Mexican-American War and Antebellum Era by Fort Pitt, Cyrus Alger & Co, and the West Point Foundry. Of these, only around sixteen are known to survive of which only one is reported in private hands. Mortars were used to throw heavy explosive shells over fortifications in an arched trajectory and could suppress enemy batteries, destroy barracks and other buildings inside a fort's walls, rain explosive shells down on trenches, and more. The 10 Inch Model 1840 Mortars are reported to have been able to throw a 98 pound shell 2,100 yards. It is marked "U. S." above the vent, "1855" below the vent, "1847" on the left trunnion, "C.A. & CO./BOSTON" on the right trunnion, and "23" and "J.W.R." on the face of the muzzle. It has a reproduction cast iron bed.

Very good overall with dark painted finish overall, mild oxidation and pitting, and distinct markings.