Originally manufactured between 1863-1865 as a percussion carbine for use in the Civil War, and one of 31,098 returned by the U.S. Government to Sharps after the war. Sharps received a contract in 1867 for refurbishment and alteration of their guns for use with metallic cartridges, per "Flayderman's Guide" (9th Edition, references 5F-029 through 5F-031). Many of these were immediately sent back out into the field where they saw continued use with the cavalry during the Indian Wars. This example retains its original .52 caliber six-groove rifling and is intended to fire the .50-70 centerfire cartridge. "E.A.W" inspection initials marked on the left breech of the barrel. Single letter inspection initials on various components. Script "DFC" (David F. Clark) ribbon inspection cartouche stamped on the left center of the buttstock. Absent primer feed mechanism, as typical on these metallic cartridge conversion carbines. Includes a leather Rock Island Arsenal carbine boot.