March 1-2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2018
The carbines made for the Navy were delivered with a leather covering stitched over the barrel to protect it from corrosion at sea. The first delivery Sharps & Hankin rifles were received at the Philadelphia Navy Yard on March 19th, 1862. Boston Navy Yard received another delivery on May 27th. On March 26th, 1862, Sharps & Hankin received a contract for 1,000 leather covered carbines Pattern 1859. In September 1862 the first 250 carbines arrived in Philadelphia issued to the ironclad New Ironsides. Just the possibility that this carbine could have been on board one of the early Civil War Ironclads makes for a very interesting history. This carbine features a large knifeblade replacement front sight in the original front posts, military rear sight, walnut stock, no forend, and brass buttplate. Frame is stamped "SHARPS PATENT 1859" on left side and "SHARPS & HANKINS" on right side. Stock has no visible inspection marks and is in very good condition with a 1" x 1 - 1/2" repair at butt, nicely done. Frame is grey patina. Leather is excellent with tight sewing, usual high edge wear and minor crazing. Strong, clean, rifled bore. This is a far better than average leather covered Sharps.
Manufacturer
Sharps & Hankins