This is a solid representative example of a very rare American type Greene breech loading carbine, one of approximately 300 manufactured circa 1855-1857. In March of 1856, 200 Greene carbines were delivered to fill a U.S. contract, of those 170 were sent west to the 1st Cavalry for field testing and were carried on the Cheyenne Expedition in May of 1857. A small number were issued to the 6th Ohio at the outbreak of the Civil War and most of the rest were sent to Florida for field tests. A majority of these carbines were manufactured with a 22 inch barrel, .54 caliber. On page 31 of the book "Civil War Carbines Vol. II" by John D. McAulay he mentions that a few American Greene carbines were made with a 26 inch barrel in .45 caliber. Although others in the smaller caliber are known with a tinned finish, this example features a standard browned barrel, blued frame and trigger guard, casehardened lock and upper tang. The barrel is equipped with blade front and folding ladder rear sights. Maynard tape primer system on the right. The upper tang is marked "GREENE'S PATENT/JUNE 27.1854", the lock plate is marked "MASS.ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS" and the primer lid is marked "MAYNARD'S PATENT/SEP. 22. 1845". Smooth straight grip stock fitted with a brass patch box and buttplate. Hidden underneath the rear sight spring is two serial number "77" marks. Barrel wedge marked "77" and "256". Inside of the patchbox door marked "211". Includes an original "DIRECTIONS FOR USING GREENE'S CARBINE" sheet of paper.

Very good plus with an overall brown patina, some scattered patches of light pitting, some light patches of surface rust, and sharp markings. Sling swivel absent. The stock is fine with some scattered light scratches and dents, and some pressure marks on the underside. Mechanically fine, with a repaired cracked section on the right side of the breech. An extremely rare Greene Carbine, one of only a few manufactured with a 26 inch 45 caliber barrel.