I agree with Tom as to the grade, given the 1E marking. However, the gun has some other features which I find very interesting. It has "points" carved on the top of the receiver near the breech balls, which I understand are usually found on No. 2 or higher grade guns. The bas-relief feature on the side of the breech balls is not one I have seen on No. 1 guns before, and the engraving is more elaborate and refined than I have seen on other No. 1 guns. Col. Brophy said that the Hunter No. 1 gun was the same as the Syracuse Quality No. 2 gun. I don't know whether that is correct, but your gun could be an example. Nice gun, and I agree that a Research Letter might be worthwhile.
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