Lot 1174: Civil War Spencer Repeating Saddle Ring Carbine

Roughly 50,000 Civil War model Spencer carbines were manufactured in 1863-65. They were among the three most widely used carbines of the war and were very popular with the Union cavalry. Abraham Lincoln was integral in getting the Spencer more widely adopted, but it was already in use by the time of his famous trial in Washington. After the war, many Spencers continued to be used until the adoption of the trapdoor. Many found their way into Indian hands and were used against some of the same U.S. cavalrymen who previously used them. Ironically, Custer was among the first men issued a Spencer during the war, and many Spencers were used against he and his men during the Battle of Little Bighorn. This example has the standard Spencer markings and features other than that the stock has no visible cartouches but does have small inspection stamps.

Very good as refinished. The carbine displays a smooth blend of gray and brown patina. The wood may have been replaced by an armory and is very good and has some minor edge wear, small dings and scratches, and a series of six notches on the right side of the butt. It is mechanically excellent and has crisp markings.