Approximately 4,000 of these unique rifles were manufactured from 1859 to the early 1860s; 900 for a U.S. contract and 3,000 for a Russian contract, with none of the Russian examples known. These rifles are historically significant as the first bolt action firearm adopted by the U.S. Ordnance Department. The Greene utilized an unusual system using two bullets in the chamber at a time, one in front for the actual projectile, and one contained in the rear end of a paper cartridge with a front located powder charge. The percussion underhammer ignites the powder charge in between the two projectiles, sending the front one out and using the rear as a gas seal against the face of the locked bolt. Although the bore appears smooth, it actually has an oval type of rifling invented by London gunmaker Charles Lancaster. It is marked "GREENE'S PATENT/NOV. 17 1857." on the upper tang. Includes an original Greene cleaning brush tip.

Very fine, retaining 75% original blue finish with scattered mild brown spotting, mild corrosion on the rear of the bolt, general minor marks and scratches, a slightly marred bolt head screw, and mostly mottled brown on the upper band. Casehardened hammer turned mostly to a brown. The re-oiled stock is fine with scattered dings, scratches, and some small chips on the sides and at the heel. Mechanically fine.