Harpers Ferry Armory manufactured approximately 15,700 Type II Model 1803 rifles between 1814-1820. The U.S. Model 1803 was the first true military rifle issued by the U.S. government and was used during the War of 1812. Prior rifles were basically civilian American long rifles purchased from gunmakers, but this model was designed and manufactured at the Harper's Ferry Arsenal. It is also distinct from the rifles that followed thanks to its half-stock configuration and under-rib on the barrel. Altogether they are unique and historically significant U.S. martial arms. Features include seven-groove rifling, low profile brass blade front and notch rear sights, a "wedding band" at the transition point, sunken "US" and "eagle head/P" proofs marked on the upper left barrel flat at the breech, an "eagle" containing a "US" marked shield at the center of the lock, "HARPERS/FERRY/1814" (partially faded) on the tail of the lock, brass furniture, and an iron ramrod with flared tip. Crisp "V/JS" (James Stubblefield) script inspection initials ahead of "V/MH" stamped on the left stock flat, and "B" inspection initial stamped behind the lower tang. Provenance: The Bernard Braverman Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

Very fine, exhibiting a mix of brown finish with dark brown patina, some scattered moderate pitting, and exceptionally defined barrel proofs (very hard to find on these rifles!). Brass exhibits a pleasing golden aged patina. Stock is very fine, with attractive raised grain, defined edges, some light scratches and handling marks, a few small discreet filled in repairs at the edges, a few small hairline cracks ahead of the rear lock screw, and exceptionally crisp stampings on the left flat (also very hard to find!). Mechanically excellent. This desirable Harpers Ferry Model 1803 rifle is in a high state of condition compared to the limited surviving examples today, and would be very difficult to improve upon!