A similar continental type microscope is located elsewhere in this collection. It differs from the present example in the method used to focus the mirror and the use of a diaphragm wheel instead of aperture stops. Although this microscope resembles the continental style microscopes that were prevalent at the time, the fine adjustment mechanism on this instrument is atypical of that usually associated with the continental form. In contrast to a conventional continental microscope, this microscope utilizes a lever mechanism, which only moves the tube with the limb being held stationary.

The microscope is signed on the base as above. Leopold Schrauer first began the manufacture of microscopes in Boston. By 1877, he was located in New York City at various addresses. Schrauer microscopes are relatively uncommon. In the book entitled A Short History of the Early American Microscopes by D. Pagitt, it is stated "It is somewhat strange that Schrauer's microscopes are not more common today, since he was apparently in business for more than 20 years. This may be partially explained by Schrauer's proclamation that he gave no discount to the trade which would indicate that he did not have access to the traditional marketing agencies".