The Smith carbine was designed by Dr. Gilbert Smith of Buttermilk Falls, New York, in the late 1850s and was manufactured by the American Machine Works, Massachusetts Arms Company, and American Arms Company in Massachusetts from 1861 to 1865. A total of 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. The special rubber cased ammunition proved difficult to supply, but the design itself was popular. This example has standard markings and features including "L.F.R." on the left of the barrel and "JH" cartouche on the left of the wrist.

Fine, retains 70% faded original blue finish and strong traces of original case colors in sheltered areas with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina and the buttplate a brown patina. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor dings and scratches and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.