Offered here is a Civil War issue Sharps New Model 1863 rifle. Only 6,150 New Model 1863 rifles were manufactured (C,30000-C,40000 range) compared to over 60,000 New Model 1863 carbines, making them a desirable Sharps variation. Features a 30 inch barrel with a front sight doubling as a socket bayonet lug, R.S. Lawrence patent ladder rear sight, Sharps address and "NEW MODEL 1863" marked on top of the barrel, Sharps 1848 patent date marked on the left of the receiver with the R.S. Lawrence 1859 patent date and Sharps 1852 patent date on the lock, serial number "C,39336" marked on the upper receiver tang and on the underside of the barrel, with three barrel bands, sling swivels mounted on the bottom of the middle barrel band and buttstock, single letter inspection marks stamped on some components, "M.N.M" inspection initials on the left barrel flat at the breech, "T.W.R" inspection initials stamped on the bottom of the forearm, and two faded bordered script inspection cartouches stamped on the left stock wrist. Black painted collection inventory numbers visible on the lever.

Very good with attractive character from period use, retains 40% faded thin original blue finish on the barrel with a mix of smooth gray and brown patinas on the balance, strong case colors showing on the replacement barrel bands, scattered brown freckling, and distinct markings and edges in the iron overall. Wood is also very good as re-oiled, with numerous scattered scars, dents and scratches, a crack at the right rear of the forearm with a small chip at the bottom left rear corner, and visible cartouches. Mechanically excellent.