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Sharps Model 1874 Sporting Rifle with Desirable J. P. Lower Retailer Marked Barrel

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,750.00 - 6,500.00 USD
Sharps Model 1874 Sporting Rifle with Desirable J. P. Lower Retailer Marked Barrel
This Bridgeport manufactured Model 1874 was made circa 1871 to 1881 (the Model 1874 was not applied to the gun for a few years after production began). The top of the barrel is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT, CONN." ahead of the rear sight, with "J.P. LOWER" and "CALIBRE 40" behind the rear sight. There are two additional filler block filled dove tails, one about 3 1/2" ahead of the present rear sight and one immediately behind the "40" marking. Other than the serial number on the upper tang there are no other markings. J.P. Lower was one of Sharps largest western states distributor in Denver, Colorado. The serial number is correctly marked with 6 numbers because the "C" prefix was dropped after serial number C54800. Low profile dove tailed blade front sight and Lawrence patent marked folding leaf right sight graduated to 800 yards. The barrel was blue with casehardened remaining parts. The rifle is equipped with adjustable double set triggers and mounted with a smooth high gloss walnut forearm with a pewter forend and straight grip stock with a steel style buttplate. Complete with 5 3/8"x3 1/2" J.P. Lower advertisement
BBL: 28 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 40 Sharps
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 157084
Condition: Fine as partially restored. The barrel has a smooth attractive brown patina with strong traces of the original blue finish in the protected areas and most of the original thinning blue remains under the forearm. The serial number on the barrel struck and renumbered to match. The left side of the receiver shows much of the fades original case colors, with most of the casehardening pattern remaining on the right side. The lock shows strong faded original case colors below the hammer and the remaining surfaces have a smooth crisp silver gray patina. The wood has been professionally revarnished and remains very fine with a few minor dings and handling marks. Crisp and clear markings. Mechanically excellent.