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 IIA alteration Model 1841 rifles are described on pages 143-144 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms, Volume III", with this exact rifle pictured on page 143 with one caption that states, "Harpers Ferry (Type IIA) Rifles are equipped with slide pattern rear sights, short upper barrel bands, and bayonet lugs with guide keys." and another caption that states, "The base of the Type IIA rifles' slide pattern rear sight is graduated '200,' '3,' and '4.' The leaf is graduated from '5' to '8' on its upper surface, and '9' at the end. [the leaf on this example ends at 10]" The same page states, "Some of the 449 new rifles fabricated at Harpers Ferry in fiscal 1855 may have been of this configuration. It is believed that rifles of this configuration were issued to the Sioux expedition and to the Fourth and Sixth infantry regiments." "1854" dated lock and "1855" dated barrel tang. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes period leather sling, tool and extra nipple in the patch box. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Fine, retaining 60% plus original brown finish on the barrel with some areas of finish wear concentrated at the muzzle and on top of the middle of the barrel, and some light surface corrosion on the bolster. 75% plus vivid arsenal refurbished case colors concentrated on the lock plate with muted colors on the hammer. Crisp markings in the metal overall. Brass retains attractive bright surfaces. Stock is very fine as lightly sanded and re-oiled with some light scratches, a repaired section at the left of the barrel tang, and defined edges. Mechanically excellent.