This exceptional example of a scarce Sharps New Model 1859 percussion carbine that features the desirable early type brass barrel band, patch box and buttplate. These components were later changed to iron. Introduced in late 1858, the New Model 1859 Sharps are numbered starting in the 30000 range with total early type production around 3,000 units. The state of Georgia bought approximately 2,000 (1,600 bought directly from Sharps and 400 bought on the commercial market), and it is known that they were issued to the Georgia cavalry and infantry units. These were the first of the straight breech models and were widely used during the Civil War. Many were damaged, altered, or destroyed. This high conditioned early version of the New Model 1859 percussion carbine has a barrel fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a Lawrence patent rear sight marked "R.S. LAWRENCE/PATENTED/FEB. 15th 1859." The barrel is marked with the three-line Hartford address ("SHARPS RIFLE/MANUFG. CO./HARTFORD CONN.") ahead of the rear sight and "NEW MODEL 1859" at the breech. There is a saddle ring and bar mounted on the left side of the stock wrist. It has the Lawrence pellet primer, blue barrel and casehardened receiver. The lock and receiver have the standard Sharps ("C. SHARPS' PAT./SEPT. 12th 1848" and "C. SHARPS' PAT./OCT 5th 1852") and R.S. Lawrence ("R.S. LAWRENCE PAT./APRIL 12th 1859") patent markings. The serial number is stamped on the upper receiver tang. The inside of the patch box door is numbered to the gun. Mounted with a highly figured smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with sling swivel mounted on the underside of the buttstock.

Excellent. The barrel retains 98% original blue finish showing very faint muzzle wear. The action retains 97%-98% of the plus vivid original case colors. The breech block, barrel band spring, and screw heads retain 97%-98% bright original niter blue finish. The brass hardware is excellent has a wonderfully pleasing patina with much of the original finish. The wood is also excellent showing some very scattered minor handling marks and retaining most of the finish. Mechanically excellent. Truly a spectacular brass mounted Sharps New Model 1859 percussion carbine that would add value to any collection! This is the finest example of a Sharps New Model 1859 Carbine we have ever offered at auction!