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, with a sling bar and ring 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. Provenance: The 50 year Collection of Johnny Walker Birmingham Pistol Wholesale

Very fine, retains 85% original blue finish on the barrel, 75% original case colors on the frame and hammer, 85% plus original bright niter blue finish on the breech latch and trigger guard tang with the buttplate mostly turned to a smooth brown patina, scattered areas of light surface freckling, and sharp markings and edges in the metal. Wood is fine as sanded and re-oiled, with defined edges, a few light handling marks, and a legible cartouche. Mechanically excellent.