Less than 500 of these rifles are believed to have been manufactured c. 1855-1860, with less surviving today. These "faucet" mechanism rifles are easy to identify thanks to the massive square stud on the right side of the round action and the distinctive lever that rotates up allowing the rifle to be loaded through the breech. It has a large blade front sight, adjustable sporting notch rear sight with elevator, "ALLEN & WHEELOCK. CAST-STEEL 147/WORCESTER" on the upper left barrel flat, "ALLEN'S PATENT/JULY 3./1855." on the lever, nicely figured buttstock, rifle buttplate with trapdoor. Matching serial number "147" marked on the left of the frame breech, sight elevator, forearm and bottom of the barrel.

Very good plus, retains 20% original blue finish concentrated on the breech end of the barrel with mottled gray and brown patina on the balance, scattered patches of light oxidation, and smooth gray patina visible on the casehardened components. The wood is fine with scattered mild scratches and dents, a few small chips on both sides at the rear of the forend. Mechanically fine.