Manufactured between 1856-1857, this is one of only 600 of these Sharps Model 1855 carbines purchased on contract by the U.S. Army, with the majority issued to the 1st Dragoons in California and the 2nd Dragoons in Texas, per pages 197-198 of "Flayderman's Guide" (9th Edition, 5F-014.2). "U.S/J.H/P" (sub-inspector John Hawkins) markings on the upper left breech area of the barrel. Marked with the standard three-line Sharps Hartford address on the barrel ahead of the rear sight. The upper tang has the "SHARPS/PATENT/1848" marking in front of the serial number. "EDWARD MAYNARD/PATENTEE 1845." marked on the primer cover. Matching serial number marked on the upper receiver tang and bottom of the barrel concealed by the forearm. Brass blade front and folding leaf rear sight (absent slide). Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a brass barrel band, patchbox and buttplate. The consignor indicated this carbine was purchased from Vin Caponi, Jr. on May 17, 2013. Provenance: Vin Caponi, Jr.; Private Collection

Good, with artificially applied brown, some scattered light surface freckling, a repaired soldered section at the tail of the lever, and defined markings in the metal. Wood is also good as sanded and re-oiled, with some scattered dings and dents, reglued cracks visible at the top of the wrist, and various small cracks visible at some of the edges. Absent rear sight slide piece. The primer door latch is non-functional, otherwise mechanically functions fine. These U.S. Sharps Model 1855 carbines are hard to find in any condition!