The Peabody carbine was developed by Henry O. Peabody of Boston, Massachusetts, in 1862 and tested in 1864, but the end of the Civil War terminated Ordnance Department interest in the design. An estimated 112,000 Peabody rifles and carbines were manufactured by the Providence Tool Company in Rhode Island before production ended in 1871. They were sold in large numbers to Canada, Switzerland, France, Romania, Mexico, and Spain in various calibers. Connecticut, South Carolina, and Massachusetts also purchased some Peabodys for state units. This example has the standard markings and features. The oval "WC" Providence Tool Co. inspection mark that was stamped on all Peabody carbines manufactured for foreign contracts is stamped on the left side of the wrist.

Very fine overall with 50% of the faded original case colors, 70% original blue finish, scattered marks and scratches, strong original oiled finish on the wood, some minor dents and scrapes, a flake at the tail of the saddle ring base, and fairly distinct markings. Mechanically excellent.