The Sharps Model 1853 is one of the most iconic firearms of the often violent antebellum era and was famously used by John Brown and his abolitionist allies in Bleeding Kansas and during his raid on Harpers Ferry. According to page 214 of "Sharps Firearms, The Percussion Era 1848-1865" by Roy Marcot, "...SRMCo. [Sharps] records indicate that 222 Model 1853 Military Rifles were fabricated by Robbins & Lawrence and sold to SRMCo. between September 28, 1854 and mid-1856. The rifle serial numbers are found mainly in the 15200 to 19000+ range, with others in the 20000+ range... This range includes some firearms with carbine length 24-inch barrels, but most with 27-inch barrels." Blade front and Lawrence patent 900 yard ladder rear sight, saber bayonet lug, barrel marked "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFG. CO./HARTFORD CONN." on top, upper tang marked "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" ahead of the serial number, lock marked "SHARP'S/PATENT/1852", small "J" inspection mark behind the lower tang, matching serial number marked underneath the barrel, inside the forearm channel, upper tang, and inside of the patch box door. Brass barrel band, patch box, and buttplate. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes saber bayonet with serial number "22391" marked on the flat of the handle, brass tipped leather scabbard, and wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Fine as turned to a pleasing smooth brown patina on the barrel and a gray/brown patina on the receiver with attractive muted patterns of original case colors remaining, 50% original blue finish on the rear sight with some light pitting. Brass fittings retain an attractive bright, attractively aged color. Wood is very fine with some scattered light scratches and dents. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet and scabbard are both fine. A pleasing example of a rare Sharps Model 1853 military rifle!