Invented and patented by Gilbert Smith of Buttermilk Falls, New York in late 1855, here is an original Civil War Smith carbine in super condition. This single-shot, percussion shortarm is a .50 caliber, breechloading carbine that measures approximately 39 ½” long overall.

Two-piece black walnut stock is made up of a 9” forearm held by a single barrel band and a single screw. Shoulder portion has a very fine, single government inspector cartouche. An “0” and very small sub-inspector’s initials are found stamped in front of the butt plate tang. Wood displays several small dings overall.

The 21 ½” long round/octagonal barrel surface wears beautiful original dark bluing with no rusting. Inspector stamp “L.F.R.” visible on left barrel facet near frame. Barrel has original blade front sight and folding rear sight. Stamped with serial number “8759” on underside at the hinge.

Left side of breech opposite the hammer bears an excellent patent mark “ADDRESS / POULTNEY & TRIMBLE / BALTIMORE U.S.A.” Forward of that stamp and running perpendicular is a sharp patent mark “SMITH’S PATENT / JUNE 23, 1857”. A light maker’s stamp “MANUFACTURED BY / AM’N M’CH’N WKS / SPRINGFIELD MASS” is visible on frame directly under the sling bar.  Frame exhibits strong case colors. Carbine exhibits sharp, crisp mechanics. Bore with strong rifling is bright, quite possibly unfired.   [jet]

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