September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/6/2023
In need of additional arms during the Crimean War, in 1855 Britain contracted with Sharps for 6,000 carbines. Half of the carbines, including this example, were fit with 19" round barrels in .577. Correct British inspector and proof marks present at the breech. Blade front sight and 5-position leaf rear sight. Slant breech style action correctly fit with Maynard tape primer and saddle ring. Plain walnut forend retained by a single steel barrel band. Plain walnut buttstock with brass patch box and buttplate unit marked "8H / 408". CONDITION: Good. Steel has largely drifted to a brown patina, mixing with some added finish. Original serial numbers removed with restamped numbers present on the lower tang and bottom of barrel. Stocks are very good as cleaned with some added finish. Brass is bright. Fine bright bore displays well-defined rifling. Fine mechanics. Most of these carbines saw heavy use overseas with very few making their way back to the US, making them very scarce.