38,200 54 caliber U.S. Model 1817 Flintlock rifles (also known as the :Common Rifle"") were produced by Henry Deringer, Philadelphia, Robert Johnson, and Nathan Starr, both of Middeltown, CT, between 1817 and the early 1840s. Many were later altered to percussion by the Government but only a handful were originally made as percussion rifles such as this fine Deringer rifle. The 36"" round barrel has an excellent bore with brithg, strong rifling. The percussion bolster is integral to the barrel and the barrel is correctly marked with only the letter P at the breech. The barrel is bright with scattered light staining. It has a blade front sight and leaf rear sight with three gradations. The lock is stamped US over a very small DERINGER over PHILADELa. The lock and hammer are bright. The bands, trigger guard, butt plate and patch box are bright. The stock is fine with sharp edges, no cracks or chips, light wear, and, correctly, no inspection cartouche. The action functions correctly. It is believed that Deringer produced these in an attempt to obtain a government or state contrace. Based on their rarity, neither occurred. One rarely sees one today, especially in the fine condition that his one is.