This Sharps was originally manufactured in 1863-1865 as a percussion carbine for use in the Civil War and was one of 31,098 carbines returned by the U.S. Government to Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Co. in 1867, who received a contract for refurbishment and alteration of their rifles for use with metallic cartridges. This example features a sleeved barrel with three-groove rifling done at the time of alteration. Script "DFC" (David F. Clark) ribbon inspection cartouche marked on the left center of the buttstock and absent primer feed mechanism (does not affect function of the gun), as typical on these metallic cartridge conversion carbines. It has a brass blade front sight, Lawrence patent notch/folding ladder rear sight, standard New Model 1859 receiver markings, saddle ring and bar, smooth walnut forearm and stock with patch box.

Very fine, retains 95% arsenal refurbished blue finish on the barrel with some scattered light surface freckling, 60% plus vivid arsenal refurbished case colors with smooth gray patina and freckling on the balance, and scattered patches of light pitting. Wood is also very fine, with defined edges, some light scratches and handling marks, and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.