This Smith carbine was manufactured by American Machine Works, Springfield, Massachusetts and was one of the most important Federal Cavalry carbines. Designed by Gilbert Smith, the production of this breech loading percussion carbine was almost entirely consumed by government contracts, with limited numbers going to the civilian market. A total of 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. Smith carbines were considered to be accurate and reliable weapons. Standard three sets of markings on the left side of the frame "MANUFACTURED BY/AM'N MCH'N. WRKS/SPRINGFIELD. MASS", agents' names "ADDRESS/POULTNEY & TRIMBLE/BALTIMORE U.S.A." and "SMITH'S PATENT/JUNE 23, 1857". The left barrel flat near the receiver is marked with a small "L.F.R". Matching serial number on the receiver and barrel. Dovetail brass blade front sight and folding leaf rear sight correctly absent of yard markings. Blue barrel and trigger guard, niter blue barrel latch and casehardened remaining parts. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip walnut stock with a steel carbine buttplate. There are two sharp "JH" cartouches on the left wrist.

Very fine. The barrel and trigger guard retain 85% original blue finish with scattered minor oxidation. The barrel latch retains 90% original bright blue finish with some minor oxidation. The buttplate has a smooth dark patina. The receiver and hammer retain 80% of the original case colors which have darkened with age. The wood is excellent with only a few minor dings and handling marks. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. This carbine appears to have been fired very little if at all. A very nice Smith Civil War carbine.