This rifle is very similar to other examples of known Henry Deringer U.S. Indian Department contract rifles from c. 1812-1818. It has blade and notch sights and is chambered in .54 caliber with seven-groove rifling. "H. DERINGER" and "PHILADa" marked on top of the barrel. No "eagle head/P" proof is marked, or ever was marked, on the left of the breech on this example as typically seen on the Indian contract rifles. "H.DERINGER" marked lock. Brass furniture. The same lock and patch box style have been found on many Deringer trade rifles, and it appears this example could have possibly been a contract overrun made from leftover parts for commercial sale, or to sell to a state on contract. Initials "GF" of U.S. martial inspector George Flegel marked in underside of the stock behind the lower trigger guard tang. A similar Henry Deringer Indian contract rifle, with a full octagon barrel and slight differences, is pictured on pages 384-386 of the book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume II" by George Moller.

Very good with a blend of smooth gray patina, scattered dark colored light pitting, moderate flash pitting, mostly clear markings on the barrel, and defined markings on the lock. Stock is also very good as lightly sanded and re-oiled with an attractive figure overall, scattered light dents and scratches, and crisp inspection initials. Mechanically excellent.