This Sharps was originally manufactured in 1863-1865 as a percussion carbine for use in the Civil War, and was one of 31,098 carbines returned by the U.S. Government to Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Co. in 1867, who received a contract for refurbishment and alteration of their rifles for use with .50-70 centerfire metallic cartridges. This example features a sleeved barrel with three-groove rifling done at the time of alteration and standard markings and features. Boxed script "EF" inspection cartouche stamped on the left of the stock wrist with two faint cartouches visible beneath, and a script "DFC" (David F. Clark) ribbon inspection cartouche stamped on the left center of the buttstock as well as absent primer feed mechanism (does not affect function of the gun), as typical on these metallic cartridge conversion carbines. Provenance: The Bob Howard Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection

Exceptionally fine, retains 95% plus arsenal refurbished blue finish on the barrel with some very minor wear visible around the muzzle, and 95% plus vivid arsenal refurbished case colors on the frame. Arsenal refurbished wood is very fine with distinct edges, a few minor handling marks, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional example would be very difficult to improve upon!