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 Andrew Singer Collection

Excellent, retains 95% plus original blue finish on the barrel, 98% vivid original case colors on the frame, 85% plus original bright niter blue finish strongest on the breech latch, stock junction and trigger guard/lower tang with the buttplate turned to a smooth brown patina, and sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. Wood is very fine with attractive original raised grain, a few minor chips at the toe, some scattered light scratches, defined edges, and an exceptionally crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. This excellent American Machine Works Smith carbine would make a fine addition to any Civil War or U.S. martial collection!