The New Model 1859 Sharps are numbered starting in the 30000 range making this a very early example. These first variations are only found up to serial number 31,332 per Sellers in "Sharps Firearms." These were the first of the straight breech models and were widely used during the Civil War. Many were damaged, altered, or destroyed. This example has the correct early brass furniture, including a brass patch box, and the early style flat breechblock with ridges only on the rear edge. Interestingly, there are no Lawrence or Conant patent markings found on the breechblock; many early New Model 1859s will have just the Conant patent marking, and later examples have both the Lawrence and Conant markings. The front sight is a blade insert "pinched" in a base integral with the barrel, and the rear sight is a notch and folding ladder graduated out to 800 yards. The rear sight base has the Lawrence patent marking. The barrel is marked with the three line Hartford address, and the lock plate and receiver have the standard markings. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel and the upper tang. "145" is stamped on the inside of the patch box and the toe of the buttplate. There are two oval cartouches on the left under the saddle ring bar.

Fine. The barrel has traces of faded original blue finish, and there is fairly strong original blue and case colors in the concealed areas. The action primarily displays a dark blend of gray and brown patina, and there is some mild oxidation and pitting concentrated primarily on the hammer. The brass components have an attractive, deeply aged patina. The saddle ring is absent. The wood is also fine and has some scrapes, surfaces chips, moderate handling wear, and fairly distinct cartouches. The other markings are generally crisp, and the action functions excellently. This is a scarce example of an very early New Model 1859 carbine. Only around 1,332 of these first variations were manufactured, and this example is number 215!