This Sharps carbine features engraving in the distinctive patterns attributed to the shop of Gustave Young. The hammer has eight dots stamped below the spur, which was a method used by Gustave Young to denote the level of embellishment, most notably on Colt revolvers. Features Germanic floral scroll pattern engraving with punchdot backgrounds, straight and wavy line borders on the frame, breech, lock, hammer, lever, lower tang, saddle bar mount, and buttplate. This Sharps was originally manufactured in 1863-1865 as a percussion carbine for use in the Civil War and was likely 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. It may have seen military use in the Indian Wars era prior to being returned and engraved for commercial sale. "A.H.K" inspection initials marked on the left flat of the breech end of the barrel, "A.W.M" marked on the saddle bar mount, and a faint script "TWR" (Thomas W. Russell) boxed inspection cartouche marked on the left center of the buttstock. The lock has been modified with the top section slimmed, possibly factory performed prior to being engraved. The replacement Sharps barrel is numbered "71020" underneath the forend, and factory relined with three-groove rifling.

Fine as period refinished and engraved, retains 70% plus blue finish strong in most of the engraved areas with smooth brown patina and some spotting on the front half of the barrel. The engraving remains sharp overall. The wood is very good as lightly sanded and re-oiled, with some light scratches. Mechanically excellent.