Scarce Civil War Sharps Model 1859 Berdan Sharpshooter rifle .52 caliber (AL8133)

Serial No. 54549, circa 1859-1862, ,52 caliber, 30" round rifled barrel. One of the Sharps rifles with double set triggers issued to the Berdan Sharpshooters, serial number can be found listed in Wiley Swords book "Sharpshooter, Hiram Berdan, his famous sharpshooters and their Sharps rifles" on page 98. Metal has been lightly cleaned some time ago and is now a grey patina with scattered freckling noted. Wood is good and has also been light cleaned some time ago,minor nicks and scratches are noted. Bore shows good rifling with areas of frosting and pitting visible in the grooves. No doubt this rifle saw some service!