Lot 3096: Sharps New Model of 1863 Metallic Cartridge Conversion Carbine

Estimate: $2500 - 3750
Manufacturer: Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Company Model: 1863-Carbine
This is an example of a very fine Civil War Sharps New Model 1863 Carbine that was converted to fire the .50-70 cartridge by the Sharps Rifle Co., in 1867. Sharps .50-70 carbines were widely issued to the U.S. Cavalry and remained in service until replaced by the Model 1873 Springfield Carbine. The carbine has a military blue barrel with color case-hardened barrel band, receiver, breechblock, hammer, lever and buttplate. The stock and forearm are oil finished walnut. The carbine retains the original R.S. Lawrence patent folding leaf rear sight on the barrel and the bright-finished sling bar and ring on the left side of the stock and receiver. The three-groove barrel was re-lined during the conversion. The carbine retains the Lawrence pellet primer. The top of the barrel is lightly marked "NEW MODEL of 1863" between the rear sight and the receiver. The standard Sharps and R.S. Lawrence patent markings are present on both sides of the receiver and the side plate. The Civil War Ordnance inspector's initials "E.A.W." are stamped on the right side of the barrel. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on most components. The left side of the stock is stamped with the Ordnance final inspection marks which consists of the initials "DFC" in a ribbon. The serial number, "C,1033" is stamped on the upper receiver tang.
BBL: 22 In
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 50-70
Finish: blue/case-hardened
Grips:
Serial Number: C1033
Condition:
Extremely fine. The carbine retains 90% of the blue and 75% plus case-hardened finish. Nearly all of the dull blue finish is present on the barrel. The barrel band, breechblock and receiver retain more than 90% of the muted case colors. The case colors on the lever and lower tang have faded to a dark patina. The stock and forearm are in excellent condition with very minor handling wear. The bore is mirror bright. The original Sharps marking on the barrel and receiver are light. The "DFC" conversion inspection mark is extremely crisp. This is an excellent example of an Indian War Sharps New Model 1863, .50-70 Conversion Carbine.