Starr Arms Co. manufactured approximately 20,601 of these carbines during the Civil War. Features standard blade front and two-leaf rear sights, inspection initials "H.G.S" on the left of the breech, two boxed script "STB" (Samuel T. Bugbee) inspection cartouches on the left wrist of the stock, and "L.A.B." (Lester A. Beardslee) inspection initials ahead of the buttplate tang. Serial number "20955" on the right of the breech block, and likely matching numbered underneath the barrel but no disassembly was performed out of respect for the immaculate condition of this carbine. A brass collection tag marked "FBS50" is hanging from the saddle ring. Provenance: The Donald Bates Collection

Excellent plus, as issued. Retains 98% plus original blue and vivid casehardened finishes. All markings in the metal are sharp. Most of the original dried packing grease is present on the breechblock and interior parts. There is no flash-pitting. Brass retains an untouched golden patina. Wood is also excellent plus with attractive raised grain and rich oil finish, defined edges, some light handling marks, and crisp inspection stampings. This is the finest example Rock Island Auction Company has had the pleasure of bringing to auction, and this near new Starr carbine, nearly impossible to improve upon, would make an excellent addition to any Civil War or U.S. Martial collection!