Lot 113:U.S. Civil War American Machine Works Smith Carbine

May 13th, 2022|Rock Island, IL

Lot 113:U.S. Civil War American Machine Works Smith Carbine

May 13th, 2022|Rock Island, IL

Price Realized:

Estimated Price$6,500 - $9,500

Exceptional U.S. Civil War American Machine Works Smith Breech Loading Percussion Saddle Ring Carbine with Rare Bullet Mold

Reportedly 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the U.S. Government throughout the Civil War. 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. Blade front and ladder rear sights. The left side of the receiver has a sling bar and ring. "L.F.R" inspection initials on the left barrel flat at the breech. Circled script "JH" inspection cartouche on the left stock wrist. Small "JH" inspection initials ahead of the buttplate tang. Includes a bullet mold marked with "E.W" inspection initials. Provenance: The Donald Bates Collection

Rating definitionExcellent plus, retains 98% plus original blue finish on the barrel with some light thinning. Retains 90% plus original bright nitre blue finish with some light brown patina on the barrel band and buttplate, and 97% vivid original case colors on the frame. Wood is also excellent with attractive raised original grain and rich oil finish, a small chip below the left of the breech and at the toe, a few minor dings, and an exceptionally crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. The bullet mold is excellent plus overall. This exceptional example of an American Machine Works Smith carbine would be very difficult to improve upon and would make an excellent addition to any Civil War or U.S. Martial collection!

Details

ManufacturerAmerican Machine Works

ModelSmith Carbine

TypeCarbine

Serial number

ClassAntique

Barrel21 5/8 inch part octagon

Finishblue/casehardened

Stockwalnut

Item LocationRock Island, IL

Catalog page85