These distinctive brass frame Warner carbines were manufactured c. 1864 to fill an Ordnance Department contract for 1,501 carbines, and Warner Carbines were issued to the 3rd Massachusetts and 1st Wisconsin Cavalry Regiments. However, this exceptional example does not have an inspector's cartouche and may have been sold privately. It also appears to have had the barrel and barrel band polished bright rather than blued. The left side of the brass frame is marked with "JAMES WARNER, SPRINGFIELD MASS" over "WARNER'S/PATENT" next to the saddle ring. The carbine has the smooth hook type breechblock release and saddle ring on the left side. It also has the breech locking lever incorporated on these first Warner manufactured carbines. The interior of the breechblock and frame are stamped with "16" visible when opened and "J." on the rear of the breechblock. The barrel is fitted with a notch and folding leaf rear sight graduated for 300, 500, and 800 yards. The forearm is secured to the barrel by an iron barrel band. A manual extractor lever is located at the rear of the forearm. The frame and buttplate are brass, and the latter is stamped with the serial number, "1526". The stock and forearm are walnut with a smooth oiled finish. An "L" inspector mark is stamped on the stock just to the rear of the lower tang and on top of the buttplate. Provenance: The Bob Noske Collection; The Ken Feryo Collection; The David Aroh Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Excellent with light patina forming on the otherwise bright finish on the barrel and barrel band, small spot of light pitting on the latter, strong original blue on the rear sight and ejector, 85% case colors on the hammer and trigger, very attractive aged patina on the frame and buttplate, and minor handling and storage marks. The wood is also excellent with a barely visible hairline grain separation present on the left side of the wrist. Mechanically excellent. One of the finest examples we have had the pleasure to offer.