Only 143 of these rare Model 1875 Lee rifles were manufactured c. 1875 by Springfield Armory, according to "Flayderman's Guide" (9th Edition, 9A-404). Offered here is an excellent example that shows minimal evidence of use. On June 23, 1874, Congress approved "For the purpose of testing Mr. Lee's breech loading gun under the direction of the Secretary of War the sum of ten thousand dollars is hereby appropriated." After one year, 143 rifles were completed, under the supervision of inventor James Paris Lee, using the appropriated $10,000, working out to a cost of approximately $69.93 per rifle. The Model 1875 Lee drew inspiration from the Martini and Peabody series of single shot falling block rifles. The biggest change introduced by Lee was the use of a combination hammer and breech lever; from a decocked position, a push forward on the hammer drops the breech block and ejects a spent cartridge case, and when a new round is chambered the breech block automatically pops back upwards to a closed position via spring pressure. Once closed, the hammer can be thumbed back to a locked half-cock position for carry or all the way back to full-cock ready for firing. These rifles were reportedly capable of a rate of fire of about 40 rounds per minute. Blade front sight doubling as a lug for a socket bayonet and 1,100 yard Model 1873 folding ladder rear sight. Serial number "31" marked on the right of the hammer and bottom of the breech block (requires disassembly to view). The upper tang is stamped "U.S." above "PAT. MAR. 16. 1875." It has two "U" marked barrel bands. The front band has stacking sling swivels, and the trigger guard has a single swivel through the front. The smooth straight grip stock is stamped with Master Armorer Erskine S. Allin's oval script "ESA" inspection cartouche on the left below the action, and a small "I" inspection letter ahead of a circled script "P" proof stamped behind the trigger guard. "US" marked buttplate tang.

Excellent, nearly as issued, retaining 97% attractive original blue finish on the barrel, 98% original oil quenched casehardened finish on the receiver and breech block, 90% plus original oil quenched casehardened finish on the hammer, trigger guard and buttplate, a bright loading slot on top of the breech block, a few small patches of minor surface corrosion at the muzzle, with absolutely sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. Stock is also excellent with attractive grain and rich oil finish, a few minor handling marks, defined edges and an exceptionally crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. This is a superior example of a U.S. Springfield Model 1875 Lee trials rifle, and would make an excellent addition to any advanced U.S. military firearms collection!