Personally endorsed by President Lincoln after a trial firing demonstration, Spencer rifles and carbines were among the most popular arms of the American Civil War. Toward the end of the Civil War the Spencer established itself as the main arm for cavalry use and was widely issued during the Indian War era as well. The Spencer was carried by Custer's 5th Michigan Cavalry and Wilder's Lightning Brigade. The barrel was originally blued and the receiver, hammer, loading lever and buttplate casehardened. It is equipped with a brass blade front and a folding adjustable rear sights. The top of the receiver has the standard three line address and patent date. The stock and forearm are oil-finished walnut with a single barrel band, sling bar mounted on the left stock wrist, steel buttplate with compartment and sling swivel.

Good. The metal surfaces have a dark mottled patina with few minor dings on the barrel. The wood is good overall. There is a minor crack in the right front of the forearm and a minor crack on the right side of the buttstock as well as a crude carved upside down "E.A.". There are a couple of deep scratches on the left side of the buttstock and overall minor scratches, dings and dents. The wood is solid. The receiver marking is readable, except for the "MASS". Mechanically fine.