Lot 218: Civil War American Machine Works Smith Breech Loading Carbine

Nearly all of the Smith carbines manufactured were issued to Union cavalry units and saw hard use during the Civil War, and somehow this example appears to have seen little to no use. It has standard markings and features, "LFR" inspection initials on the left of the breech, and an oval script "JJC" (John J. Cornwell) inspection cartouche on the left of the wrist.

Very fine, retaining 95% blue finish overall with a patch of mild corrosion on the left towards the muzzle end, a few light patches of pitting and brown patina, and some light freckling on the breech spring and trigger guard. 50% plus vivid original case colors on the frame strongest on the right side and some light freckling. Wood is also very fine with attractive raised grain, some light scratches, light dents, minor dings, and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.