47,115 Model 1855 rifle-muskets were manufactured at Springfield Armory between 1857-1861, and another 12,158 were manufactured at Harpers Ferry. The Model 1855 was the first U.S. martial arm designed for use with Minie bullets in .58 caliber, giving it a considerable advantage in accuracy and effective range over earlier military rifles. These rifles were widely used in the Civil War and first saw action in the Coeur d'Alene War in the Pacific Northwest in 1858. It has standard markings and features including an "1859" dated lock and barrel, and iron fittings. Left stock flat stamped with an oval script "ESA" (Erskine S. Allin) inspection cartouche. "US" marked buttplate tang.

Very good, with bright lightly cleaned iron surfaces, scattered very light pin-prick pitting, a few small patches of light pitting/surface corrosion, and mostly sharp markings and edges in the metal. Stock is fine as re-oiled, with some scattered dents and scratches, a few discreetly filled in edges, a few minor cracks on either side of the lock, defined edges and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.