Reportedly, 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the U.S. Government throughout the Civil War. Some of these carbines were issued to the 3rd West Virginia Cavalry, who served as part of George Armstrong Custer's 3rd Division and played a pivotal role in the Battle of Moorefield in 1864. This Smith carbine was manufactured by American Machine Works in Springfield, Massachusetts. It utilized a special .50 caliber percussion cartridge which sealed the break action leading to higher pressure and thus velocity than the bullets fired from muzzle loading weapons. Blade front and ladder rear sights. A sling bar and ring are mounted on the left of the receiver. Small inspection initials marked on various components, and oval script "JH" inspection cartouche stamped on the left stock wrist. With a saddle ring hook.

Very fine, retains 70% original blue finish on the barrel, 75% original case colors on the frame and hammer, 80% plus original bright niter blue finish on the breech latch and trigger guard tang with the buttplate mostly turned to a smooth brown patina, with scattered light freckling and smooth brown patina on the balance overall with sharp markings and edges in the metal. Wood is also very fine with defined edges, some scattered light scratches and dents, some minor chipping ahead of the buttplate, and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.