September 15, 16, & 17, 2026 Firearms & Militaria
The live portion of this session begins on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Lot #2097:
(A) SCARCE BERDANS SHARPSHOOTERS NEW MODEL 1859 SHARPS PERCUSSION RIFLE.
Historical records indicate that Col. Berdan ordered 2000 special order Sharps Model 1859 rifles for his select unit of Sharpshooters, most with the double set triggers, all of which were delivered to him by June 1, 1862. Wiley Swords list of known documented Berdan Sharps rifles lists numbers 54390, 54412, 54478 and 54492. This rifle is number 54447. These rifles generally feature the Lawrence Pellet priming system which is present on this rifle but has been disassembled. Folding ladder Lawrence rear sight, front sight fitted for angular bayonet with three illegible sub inspector cartouche stamps still visible on base of long forearm. The barrel has the Sharps Hartford legend along with "New Model 1859" at breech. The lock has the Sharps and Lawrence legends stamped on both sides of frame. The iron patch box is located on right side of stock. Three barrel bands and swivels. Most historians are familiar with the famous picture taken on August 2, 1862 picturing California Joe and his Berdan Sharps Rifle. During the Battle of Gettysburg, Berdan's men were situated around Devils Den, Cemetery Ridge, and both Round Tops, many deployed with Sickles 3rd Corp and playing an important role in turning back Longstreet's Brigades. Many in his company were killed during those two days. CONDITION: Very good. This rifle no longer displays any original blue or case colors and is now basically a smooth crisp patina. All of the stamped legends are crisp. The double set triggers are still operational. The stock has no visible cartouche stamps and there is a piece of wood missing along the left wrist. There are also a couple of proper style replaced rounded screws. The stock is still very solid, fits well with nominal dings. There is some minor marring on sides of barrel at breech. The bore is well defined but shows some minor abrasion. This rifle was definitely within that order of 2000 rifles and a far better than average example.