These carbines were manufactured by Edward Gwyn and Abner C. Campbell in Ohio and are essentially updated versions of their prior Cosmopolitan carbines. They were issued in fairly large numbers to Union cavalry units operating in the Western Theater, including the 8th Iowa Cavalry, which received 2,007 Gwyn & Campbells in total and was mustered into service in Davenport, Iowa, just across the river from Rock Island Auction Company's Rock Island facility. This example has the standard Type II markings and features. Equipped with the 600 yard ladder rear sight, boxed script "RKW" and "WHR" inspection cartouches stamped on the left of the stock wrist and "R.K.W" inspection initials marked ahead of the buttplate.

Excellent, retains 95% original blue finish on the barrel with some areas of scattered light freckling. 80% original niter blue finish remains on the breech block and upper tang, with 60% original niter blue finish remaining on the buttplate and smooth brown patina on the balance including the rear sight. 90% vivid original case colors remain on the frame, hammer and lever. Stock is also excellent with defined edges, some light scratches and handling marks, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent.