Serial # 54391 Top of the barrel is marked "New Model 1859". Standard features include 30" barrel, three barrel bands, military sights, walnut stock, and .52 caliber percussion. Beautiful factory markings on barrel and frame. Excellent original wood is proud to metal, never refinished, with no cracks or chips. Has the metal patchbox on right side and sling swivels. Sports the rare double set triggers. The fore stock has a 3/4" closed crack under side at frame. Strong bore with some very minor corrosion. Perfect action. Case colors are a smooth brown patina. In 1862, 2000 New Model 1859 rifles were issued to Hiram Berdan's 1st and 2nd Regiments of the U.S. Sharpshooters. Authentic examples in the 54374 to 57567 range, they feature double set triggers. This rifle falls perfectly into that range, therefore this rifle is a desirable example used during the Civil War by a specially organized sniping unit of which numerous articles and books have been written. With Springfield Research letter. Springfield research could not find any information on this serial number as is pertains to the person or unit. The patch box has the John Taylor pin-punch mark on inside cover. Proof positive that this is a Berdan's Sharps rifle. There is letters SL stamped on the left side of the barrel at breach. Letter V is stamped on the inside of the lever and letter M is stamped in the hinge.