Reportedly 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States Government throughout the Civil War between 1861-1865. 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 blued barrel with blade front and ladder rear sight. The left side of the casehardened receiver is fitted with a sling bar and ring. "L.F.R" inspection initials marked on the left barrel flat at the breech. Small "JH" inspection initials marked ahead of the buttplate tang. Oval script "JH" inspection cartouche marked on the left stock wrist.

Excellent, retains 97% plus original blue finish on the barrel with some light thinning, 98% plus original bright nitre blue finish with brown patina on the barrel band, 90% vivid original case colors on the frame with some areas of light freckling, and the buttplate retains traces of original blue finish with scattered moderate freckling. Wood is very fine with defined edges, some light handling marks, a few small chips on either side of the buttplate tang, some minor discoloration ahead of the right edge of the buttplate, and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. This outstanding example of an American Machine Works Smith carbine would make an excellent addition to any Civil War or U.S. Martial collection!