A quick call to Dr. Richard and we were informed that this rifle was originally shipped as an 1874 musket. There was no serial number under the barrel, so it was obviously period converted to a sporting rifle during the era using an extra barrel (factory proper) stamped "Sharps Rifle Company Bridgeport Conn.". Has the "Old Reliable" stamp on top barrel flat. Breech is stamped "Cal. 45" and fits a .45-70 perfectly. The breech measurement is 2-9/16" on the side of the barrel which indicates a bigger (longer) casing length which is probably a 45-90. Patina on the barrel matches perfectly to the frame. Has C. Sharps patent "Sept. 13, 1848" on left side. Features single trigger. Appears to have the original factory buttstock with sling swivel. Sports the proper style two screw walnut forend with slight Schnabel. Wood color and finish matches perfectly with the buttstock. Forend has a 4" repaired crack on right side. Right side of buttstock has a 3" grain separation. Wood to metal fit is perfect Left side of buttstock has the same 3" grain separation. Rear sight slot cut now sports a Springfield type military rear sight that utilizes the original slot. Front sight is period adjustable sight with tube and target post inside. Action is perfect and strong, clean bore. Has an all matching homogeneous patina that would lead you to believe it left the factory just like this and was most likely a factory alteration to a sporting rifle. All parts are aged in the same manner and tone. This rifle has lots of character in excellent shape. While the rear sight may be accurate, a sporting sight would be more fitting. Serial Number-C52398; Manufacturer-Sharps; Model-Sporting; Caliber-.45-70; Barrel Length-30"; FFL Status-Antique;