Reportedly 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States Government throughout the Civil War from 1861-65. Some of these carbines were issued to the 3rd West Virginia Cavalry, who served as part of George Armstrong Custer's 3rd Division and played a pivotal role in the Battle of Moorefield in 1864. Standard markings and features including a blue barrel with blade front and ladder rear sight. The left side of the casehardened receiver is fitted with a sling bar and ring. The barrel has an "L.F.R" inspection mark on the left at the breech. Left of the stock wrist marked with a circled script "JH" cartouche.

Fine, retaining 60% thinning original blue finish on the barrel and trigger guard with some scattered light spotting. Frame turned to a smooth gray patina with some scattered light pitting. Wood is very good as lightly refinished with some light dents and scratches, a nicely repaired split at the wrist, and a clear cartouche. Mechanically excellent.