Civil War Period Issue New Model of 1863 Patchbox Sharps Carbine

SOLD

This carbine, a solid example of one of the workhorses of the Union cavalry, is in overall very good condition. The working elements of the gun – action and bore – remain strong, as does the untouched walnut stock and fore stock; all mechanical and associated “furniture” are constructed of iron. There is no significant bluing remaining, with the gun now exhibiting an overall, gunmetal gray or plum patina with some minor pitting. The original marking are visible – on the top of the barrel is: “MODEL 1863”; on the barrel, as well: “SHARPS RIFLE / MANUFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CONN.” on the left side of the receiver: “C. SHARPS ; PAT. / SEPT. 12TH 1848”; on the lock (near the center): “C. SHARPS’ PAT. / OCT. 5TH 1852 and on upper front section: “R.S. LAWRENCE PAT. / APRIL 12TH 1859”. This carbine retains its sling ring bar and ring. New Model 1863 Sharps were manufactured in the serial number range of 75,000 to 140,000; this weapon’s serial number, stamped into the upper plate tang of the breech mechanism is: 89,813, indicative of war time issue. It has been estimated that over 100,000 Sharps rifles and carbines of the New Models of 1859 and 1863 were purchased and used by the U.S. Army and Navy during the Civil War. The so-called “Patchbox New Model of 1863” is not encountered as often as only 20,000 were manufactured, as compared to 40,000 without the patchbox.