This is one of an estimated 5,151 later production Model 1855 percussion rifles with 33 inch barrels, two barrel bands, and iron mountings, including iron patch boxes, manufactured by Harpers Ferry in 1857 to 1861. Most of the iron mounted rifles were issued to militia units, and a number were shipped to Southern states prior to the outbreak of the Civil War and the capture of the armory by Confederate forces. Any Harpers Ferry rifle dated 1860 or 1861, like this one, is likely to have been issued at the outbreak of the war or captured and issued to a Confederate soldier. The limited number of Model 1855 rifles saw heavy use throughout the Civil War, and many were destroyed when the Confederates burned the factory. The rifle is equipped with a blade front sight, three leaf rear sight with proper "1", "3" and "5" graduations, and a bayonet lug on the right side of the barrel 3 1/2 inches back of the muzzle. The lock and barrel are dated "1860." It includes a roll of primer tape, two screws, a worm, and a spare nipple in the patch box along with an unmarked and properly fitting sword bayonet with a brass mounted leather scabbard.

Fine with light brown and gray patina on the metal surfaces, strong original case colors inside the patch box and primer door, some general minor dings and scratches, distinct markings aside from the light stock cartouche, minor pitting, and minor overall wear mostly from age and storage. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is very fine and has a minor wear on the bright blade, light aged patina on the hilt, and mild storage wear on the scabbard.