Whitney Militia rifles are described in depth on pages 460-471 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume III" in which it states, "It is believed these rifles were made by the Whitney Armory from the late 1840s until 1861. Known sales to states and militia units occurred between early 1860 and early 1862." This exact rifle is photographed on page 465 and 466 under the description for "Whitney (Type I) Militia Rifle, Second Variation" in which defining features are described, "1. There is no provision for implement compartment in the stock. 2. Most are equipped with saber bayonet studs with a 1" guide key, and the stud's foot... is usually stamped with a bayonet mating number, such as '48.' 3. Most have a standing leaf rear sight dovetailed to the barrel, but a few are equipped with the Sharps Model 1853 tangent leaf sight. 4. The barrel channel is not inlet, or is only partially inlet, for a ramrod friction retainer, and these rifles are not equipped with this spring. 5. ... No examples are known with butt plate tangs marked 'US.' 6. All known examples have .54 caliber bores rifled with seven grooves." This example has an 1850 dated lock. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes leather sling and wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good with mostly bright surfaces, some scattered light to mild pitting, and clear markings. Stock is also very good as lightly sanded and re-oiled with some scattered dents, chips and scratches. Mechanically excellent.