Invented and patented by a medical physician named Gilbert Smith of Buttermilk Falls, New York in late 1855, here is an original Civil War Smith carbine in super condition used by Union forces during the Civil War. This single-shot, percussion shortarm is a .50 caliber, breechloading carbine that measures 39½” long overall and weighs a hefty seven pounds and eight ounces.

Excellent two-piece black walnut stock is made up of a 9” forearm held by a single barrel band. Left side of stock exhibits a fine, deep stampings “G. P.” directly behind the blued ferrule. Black walnut stock retains its original feathered finish with just few light dings and scratches. Very fine, single government inspector stamp visible on the wrist at the right side. Light edge scuffing adjacent to left edge of butt plate. The 21 5/8” long round / octagonal-shaped barrel surface wears original dark bluing with no rusting. Inspector stamp “B” visible on left barrel facet near frame. Barrel has original, brass blade front sight and folding rear sight. Frame housing is stamped with serial number “4851.”

Left side of breech opposite the hammer bears an excellent patent mark “ADDRESS / POULTNEY & TRIMMER / BALTIMORE U.S.A.” Directly underneath the sling bar is a sharp patent mark “SMITH’S PATENT / JUNE 23, 1857”. A fine maker’s stamp “MANUFACTURED BY / MASS. ARMS CO / CHICOPEE FALLS” is visible on frame at front of breech. All stampings are clean and sharp. Frame exhibits excellent, strong case colors. Carbine exhibits sharp, crisp mechanics. Bore with strong, six-groove rifling is bright, but could clean to shiny bright. Screws excellent and not buggered.

The Smith carbine saw extensive service with the following volunteer cavalry regiments: 1st Connecticut, 1^st Massachusetts, 6^th and 9^th Ohio, 7^th and 17^th PA, 7^th and 11^th Illinois and the 3^rd West Virginia Regiments.

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