This rare Civil War carbine was manufactured by the Cosmopolitan Arms Company of Hamilton, Ohio. The company was owned by E. Gwyn and A.C. Campbell. These carbines were the predecessor of the Gwyn & Campbell "Grape Vine" carbine. Manufactured from 1859 to 1862. This carbine is one of 1,140 "Contract Type" carbines contracted to the State of Illinois. The carbine has the distinctive large rounded hammer and serpentine lever. The lock behind the hammer is marked "COSMOPOLITAN ARMS CO." in an arc above "HAMILTON O. U.S. / GROSS' PATENT". The matching serial number appears on the bottom of the barrel and frame at the breech end and on the breech block. There is a saddle ring and bar mounted on the left side of the receiver. Dove tailed pinched blade front sight and adjustable folding rear sight graduated to 900 yards. A period added sling swivel has been mounted on the barrel and stock. Mounted with a straight grip stock with an iron buttplate. These carbines were issued to the 5th and 6th Illinois Cavalry and were carried by the 6th Cavalry on the famous "Grierson's Raid", April-May of 1863, through Mississippi to divert Confederate attention away from Grant's Vicksburg campaign.

Very good plus. The barrel has a smooth streaked brown patina and the remaining parts have a mottled grayish brown patina. There is some flash pitting on the top of the receiver and breech block and some minor oxidation on the buttplate. The stock is very good as reoiled with a few minor dents and dings. The markings are clear. The action is fine.