This carbine was manufactured in 1863-1865 as a percussion carbine for use in the Civil War and was one of 31,098 carbines returned to Sharps for alteration and refurbishment for use with the then new .50-70 cartridge in the late 1860s. Some of these carbines were then used in the Indian Wars. This is one of around only around 1,900 altered carbines that retains their original six-groove rifling. The carbine has the standard markings and features as well as added "45 70" and "E.E." markings on the barrel between the rear sight and breech. The "45" appears to be stamped over "50" which would be the correct caliber. The bore still gauges around .52. Those with bores under .5225 were not relined during conversion and were still used with .50-70 ammunition.

Fair with traces of original finish in the protected areas and otherwise gray and brown patina., some dings and marks, light scratches, and limited light pitting. The wood is fair with extensive wear visible including numerous divots and chips, numerous scrapes and dings, and a putty repair at the toe and a series of putty filled holes in patterns suggesting the carbine once had Native American brass tack decoration. Mechanically fine.