34,000 Spencer carbines were manufactured by the Burnside Rifle Company near the end of the Civil War. 30,502 were purchased by the U.S. Government. Many were also used in the Indian Wars, and Spencers proved very popular with Native Americans. They are known to have been used against the U.S. cavalry in the Red River War and the Battle of Little Bighorn. Some were used well into the 20th century; ammunition was manufactured until the 1920s and likely available for sometime thereafter. This example has the standard markings and features of the Burnside contract including government inspection marks and cartouches. It is also equipped with the Stabler cut-off device ahead of the trigger. The top of the comb on the right has nine notches that may represent success in battle or animals taken.

Very good plus. The barrel has 25% of the fading original blue finish and a mix of gray and brown patina on the balance. The case colors on the receiver are mostly faded but remain visible under the crisp silver gray patina. There are some minor spots of oxidation throughout and the usual minor scratches and marks from use. The wood is very good and has some light scratches and a few minor pressure marks. The action functions fine, and most of the markings are clear.