Approximately 1,900 Sharps type carbines were manufactured by S.C. Robinson, located in the Confederate capitol of Richmond, for the Confederate Army between 1862-1863 prior to the Confederate government purchasing the S.C. Robinson factory in March 1863 in which they continued to manufacture an additional estimated 3,000 carbines into 1864. Other sources state approximately 5,200 of these carbines were manufactured in total. This example, serial number 5203, would have been manufactured well after the Confederate government assumed control of the factory, and is likely one of the very last examples manufactured. Like most Confederate weapons, surviving examples of these carbines are difficult to find in any condition and typically show signs of hard use. They likely saw use primarily with cavalry units like their Union counterparts. Features blade and notch sights, serial number "5203" marked on the upper tang and lock plate, "W" marked on the saddle ring bar mounted with a saddle ring, sling swivel on the bottom of the buttstock, brass barrel band and buttplate.

Good as Confederate issued, with smooth gray patina overall with some scattered patches of light pitting, general wear, and numerous dings. Replacement nipple and hammer screw. One absent rear sling swivel screw. Brass is bright as lightly cleaned. Wood is also good as sanded and re-oiled, with scattered scratches and dents, and a few chips and cracks. Mechanically fine. This rare Richmond "Sharps" carbine serves as an important solid representative example of one of the most iconic Confederate weapons!