The included factory letter confirms that this scarce carbine was shipped on 25 August 1876 to Sharps agent John P. Lower of Denver, Colorado. The carbine was part of a shipment of 12 Model 1874 carbines in .50 caliber that had 25 inch barrels. At Bridgeport a total of 398 1874 carbines, both military and commercial, were manufactured from early 1872 to late 1878. The commercial Bridgeport carbine was available in 40-70, 45-70 and 50-70. The majority were in 45-70. This example is in 50-70, making this carbine an even scarcer example of a Model 1874. Blade front sight and R.S. Lawrence folding ladder rear sight graduated to 800 yards on a barrel marked with the Bridgeport address ahead of the rear sight and "J.P. LOWER" retailer marking followed by "CALIBRE 50" at the breech. The barrel is numbered to the gun. The forearm is the correct commercial style secured to the barrel by two screws. The serial number is marked horizontally on the receiver at the back. The lower tang has the sliding lever catch. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with iron patch box on the right side.

Very good. The carbine retains traces of original blue finish and silvered out original case colors in the protected areas with the balance a smooth brown patina. There is some moderate pitting on the buttplate. The wood is very good with a hairline crack near the upper tang and some minor to moderate pressure dents and scratches. There is a sliver of wood missing from the forearm near the tip. Mechanically excellent.