Ames produced just 48 of these 12-pounders in 1841-1855 for the U.S. government along with others for state contracts. Given the limited number produced, those undoubtedly destroyed during the Civil War and after, and the fact that many pieces of 19th century artillery remain government property, very few of these are in private hands, and they are difficult to acquire. The muzzle is marked "45" and "BH" above and below the smooth bore respectively, and the trunnions are marked "AMES CO./FOUNDERS/CHICOPEE/MASS." and "1854." The top of the tube has "US" ahead of handles. It is marked as weighing 1767 pounds below the knob. The front sight is absent. The bore measures approximately 4.62 inches in diameter and 74 inches in length. The carriage is a correct #3 carriage.