Lot 1162: Burnside Fifth Model Civil War Carbine

These "Fifth Model" Burnside carbines represent the completion of the evolution of General Ambrose Burnside's ingenious carbine design. Unfortunately for Burnside, he profited little, if at all, from the his well-known design because he was forced to sell his shares before the company received sizeable government contracts. The outbreak of the Civil War led to the purchase of over 50,000 Burnside carbines. They were the third most widely purchased breech loading carbines during the war after only the Sharps and the Spencer. This high condition example has the standard markings and features, including matching serial numbers and crisp government inspection markings.

Very fine. 85% of the slight fading original blue finish remains on the barrel. The lever retains 90% of the bright niter blue finish. The frame and remaining components retain 95% of the vivid, original case colors. The wood is also very fine and has some small pressure marks, minor strike marks, and a few light scuffs. Mechanically excellent. The markings are crisp.