Lot 109: Massachusetts Arms Co. Greene Carbine

Only 2,000 Greene carbines were manufactured by the Mass. Arms Co. in the mid-1850s for the British for use in the Crimean War. They differ from the American type in the larger caliber, the use of Queen Victoria's "St. Edward's Crown/VR" cipher behind hammer on the lock, the British proofmarks, shorter barrel, hexadecagon section ahead of the rear sight, sling ring on the trigger guard tang, and the use of casehardened steel for the butt and patch box instead of brass. All but a couple hundred are believed to have been scrapped for parts, and few are believed to have seen actual British military use. This example has the standard blade and folding ladder sights, "MASS ARM. CO./CHICOPEE FALLS/U.S.A. 1856" behind the cipher on the lock, Maynard patent marking on the primer door, British proofs, the two-line Greene patent marking on the upper tang, and matching serial numbers.

Very fine. The lock retains 70% vibrant original case colors, and the other areas have traces of original colors and primarily dark brown patina and some oxidation and mild pitting. The barrel retains 60% original blue finish and has brown patina and spotting on the balance. The wood is fine and has a few small dents, scattered scratches, and a darker stained patch on the left. Mechanically excellent and crisp markings.