March 1-2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2018
Smith carbines were manufactured 1861 to 1865 by the American Machine Works & American Arms Co. This is a government inspected model but they were sold to civilians in 1864 as well. Widely issued during the war to the 3rd West Virginia, 7th and 11th Illinois, 1st Connecticut, 7th and 17th Pennsylvania, 6th and 9th Ohio, and 1st Massachusetts. The left side of the stock has a "J.H." cartouche in oval for Joseph Hannis, a civilian employee who began to work at the Massachusetts Arms Co. on January 11th, 1862 who inspected Smith carbines. Left side of the barrel has the stamp "L.F.R." for Lafayette F. Rogers, who inspected Smith carbines in 1864 and 1865, which helps us further narrow down the time frame of use. This carbine remains in remarkable condition. Barrel retains approximately 95% original blue with some muzzle wear. Barrel band is brown. 98% bright blue on lock-bar. 70% case colors on frame and hammer, some bright. 70% bright blue on trigger guard and lower tang. Generous amounts of Nitre blue on screws. 30% original blue on buttplate. Wood is excellent with usual minor dings and razor sharp cartouche. Fine action and near mint, shiny bore. Far above average example of a carbine issued in 1864-65.
Caliber/Bore
.50 Percussion