Turntable Sharps M 1856 British Contract 'maynard's Patent' - Very Rare

In excellent condition, the mainplate speckled with 'MASS.ARMS Co CHICOPEE FALLS USA 1856' and 'VXR under crown'. On the other side of the plate is a British inspection marking 'A 3 under crown', the A indicates that its inspection in the United States (America). The mechanism is complete and works perfectly. The hammer holds both notches with precision, all parts are authentic. The exterior of the primer strip door is stamped 'MAYNARD'S PATENT SEP.22.1845'. A technical feature of the Sharps, an "automatic" primer: a primer was pushed out of a receptacle located against the case and placed on the chimney each time the shooter cocked the hammer. The Sharps M 1856 is one of the rarest and most sought-after rifles for collectors, 6,796 were made in total, including 6,000 sold to the British for a military contract. Ref S2884