The Model 1841 is the first official percussion rifle adopted by the U.S. Military. Harpers Ferry Armory manufactured 25,296 Model 1841 rifles between 1846 and 1855, with most of these rifles receiving various alterations. Harpers Ferry Type IV alteration Model 1841 rifles are described on pages 148-149 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume III", with the lock of this exact rifle pictured on page 148 next to the caption, "Harpers Ferry Type IV altered rifles were equipped with the Model 1858 rifle leaf sight." Page 148 also states, "In fiscal 1860, 1,071 rifles were altered to this configuration, then reamed up and rerifled in .58 caliber." The muzzle end of this exact rifle is pictured on page 149 next to the caption, "Harpers Ferry Type IV altered rifles were equipped with the high Model 1855 rifle front sight and bayonet lugs without guide keys." Page 169 of the book states, "Pursuant to the terms of the U.S. Militia Act of 1808, the federal government issued 1,019 Model 1841 rifles to the state of New Jersey between 1850 and 1854. Two hundred and fifty Model 1841 rifles altered to long-range configuration with sword bayonets were issued to New Jersey between 1856 and 1860." "1848" dated lock and barrel tang. "N.J" (New Jersey) inspection mark on the left barrel flat at the breech and two circled script "N.J" inspection cartouches marked on the left flat. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a brass US handled saber bayonet with "US" marked blade and "JB" inspection initials marked on the flat of the brass handle, Watervliet Arsenal leather sling, tools and an extra nipple in the patch box. Provenance: The George Moller Collection