Just got back from picking up this # 1 1/2 Cadet rifle. As soon as I got out to my car I dropped a .45-70 cartridge into the chamber, and it's a perfect fit! So all is as I expected, and it's a rare .45-70 Cadet 1 1/2!
The auction pictures did no service to this Rolling Block, as it's a much nicer rifle than the pictures showed. The stocks and metal are both dark, but very smooth and no damage to metal or wood. Bore is very nice, likely because it sat without owners knowing what the chamber was.
I was surprised by the size of the gun since pictures made it look like any military Rolling Block. But with the Sporting action and buttstock the barrel and forearm are shorter and lighter, so next to a #1 military it's about 20% smaller, and lighter. A very slender, lightweight version.
Thought I might do some mild cleanup, but now having it in hand I wont do a thing to it, other than take it down, to inspect, clean, and oil internals.
Try to get some pictures today or tomorrow.
I also discovered a 1903 ad from M. Hartley & Co. in New York for surplus military stores and equipment. The ad states they are selling these No. 206 Cadet rifles in .45-70 for $9 and states the guns are 25-30 years old, which would date these to early 1870's when sold new.