This carbine is a "Contract Type" but has the transitional sling swivel on the barrel and stock in addition to the standard saddle ring and bar. 300 of these are estimated to have been issues to Union troops in Kentucky while the bulk of the standard "Contract Type" carbines were issued to the 5th and 6th Illinois Cavalry. It is marked with the early serial number "208." The company was owned by E. Gwyn and A.C. Campbell, and these carbines were the predecessors of their "Grape Vine" carbines. 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, action, and breechblock. It has a "pinched" blade front sight and adjustable folding rear sight graduated to 900 yards with a 1,000 yard notch on the top.

Fair. The carbine has artificial brown patina and mild pitting which is mostly visible on the barrel. The lightly sanded and re-oiled stock has some small repairs and storage marks. The action functions fine, and the markings are all very clear.