The Palmer carbine holds the distinction of being the first metallic cartridge bolt action firearm ever adopted by the U.S. Army and among the first bolt action firearms accepted by any military. Adding to the Palmer's value is the fact that only 1,001 of these carbines are estimated to have been manufactured, all in 1865 on contract for the Union Army. They were delivered too late to see action in the Civil War but would have undoubtedly been very popular compared to many of the other single shot carbine designs used during the war. It features a blade front sight, notch and folding leaf rear sight with 300 yard peep and 500 yard top notch, "U.S./E.G. LAMSON & CO./WINDSOR VT" and "1865" on the lock, multiple "MM" inspector markings including a cartouche on the left stock flat, a saddle ring and bar above the trigger on the left, and "P" marked buttplate.

Very fine with 90% plus original casehardened finish on the lock plate, trigger guard, buttplate, breechbolt. The barrel has been professionally restored with 80% original finish mixed with blended touch-up, most noticeable near the muzzle. Some minor scrapes and dings on the otherwise excellent stock, crisp cartouche and other markings, and minor overall wear. Mechanically excellent.