This Sharps Model 1852 carbine features a fancy Civil War era inscription on the patch box consisting of the name "J.W. Campion" above a detailed hand with its finger pointing towards the sky surrounded by "GOD AND OUR COUNTRY" above "81 Penna Volls." John W. Campion was previously reported as having been a wealthy supporter of the Pennsylvania volunteers and reportedly presented them "bullet proof" vests and other items and was said to have received this carbine as a result. We have not been able to find more information on this individual, but there were several men in Philadelphia in the period by the same name in various trades and businesses. The 81st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment was organized under Colonel James Miller and Lieutenant Colonel Charles F. Johnson, in 1861 out of Philadelphia, moved to Washington, D.C. and attached to Howard’s Brigade, Sumners Division, Army of the Potomac. In March 1862 they attached to the 1st Brigade, 1st Division, 2nd Army Corps, Army of the Potomac. The 81st Pennsylvania Regiment participated in numerous engagements throughout the Civil War including the Siege of Yorktown, Battle of Seven Pines, Seven Days Battles, Battle of Antietam, Battle of Fredericksburg, Battle of Chancellorsville, Battle of Brandy Station, Battle of Gettysburg, Bristoe Campaign, Battle of Mine Run, Battle of the Wilderness, Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, Battle of Totopotomoy Creek, Battle of Cold Harbor, Siege of Petersburg, Second Battle of Petersburg, First Battle of Deep Bottom, Second Battle of Deep Bottom, Second Battle of Ream's Station, Battle of Fort Stedman, and the Battle of Appomattox Court House. Approximately 4,997 Sharps Model 1852 carbines were manufactured between 1853-1855 by Robbins & Lawrence of Windsor, Vermont, for Sharps before production shifted to the very similar Model 1853. This is the earliest Sharps model with the distinctive "slanting breech" and is fitted with the lever hinge pin retaining spring mounted on the right rear of the forearm. The top of the barrel is marked "SHARP'S RIFLE/MANUFg CO./HARTFORD. CONN." in three lines behind the rear sight. The upper receiver tang is marked "C.SHARPS/PATENT/1848" followed by the serial number, and the lock is marked "C.SHARPS'/PATENT./1852." Brass blade front and ladder rear sight. Saddle ring mounted on the left of the receiver. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with brass patch box and carbine buttplate. Matching serial number "6536" marked on the upper receiver tang, underneath the barrel, in the forend channel and on the front flat of the buttstock.

Fine, retains strong traces of original blue finish on the barrel, exhibiting mostly smooth brown and plum patinas on the iron surfaces with attractive bright golden patina on the brass fittings, and sharp markings overall with a distinct inscription on the patch box. Wood is also fine with scattered scratches and dents, a few small chips, a small crack behind the lock, a few small cracks around the buttplate, and defined edges. Mechanically excellent. This Sharps Model 1852 carbine, with the attractive inscription on the patch box, would make a fine addition to any Civil War collection!