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LOT 1202
Exceptional Civil War U.S. Sharps New Model 1863 Breech Loading Percussion
Rifle - Serial no. C,34372, 52 cal., 30 inch round bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut stock. This is an
exceptional example of a Civil War Sharps New Model 1863 rifle. Only 6,150 New Model 1863 rifles with front sights
doubling as bayonet lugs were manufactured (C,30000-C,40000 range) compared to over 60,000 New Model 1863
carbines, making them a desirable Sharps variation. This example serves as a time capsule, and sets itself apart from the rest, in its own
league, in terms of desirability. “NEW MODEL 1863” marked on top of the barrel behind the Lawrence patent ladder rear sight with 900
yard center notch, Sharps 1848 patent date marked on the left of the receiver with the R.S. Lawrence 1859 patent date and Sharps 1852
patent date on the lock, matching serial number “C,34372” marked on the upper receiver tang and underside of the barrel, three barrel
bands, sling swivels mounted on the bottom of the middle barrel band and buttstock, single letter inspection marks stamped on various
components, “M.N.M” inspection initials on the left barrel flat at the breech and on the underside flat of the forearm ahead of the trigger
guard, “E.P.R” inspection initials on top of the stock comb ahead of the buttplate tang, and two boxed script “AWM” and “TWR” (Thomas
W. Russell) inspection cartouches on the left of the wrist.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retains 90% original blue finish on the barrel with some light wear around the muzzle and a noticeable
patch of light pitting ahead of the rear band, 80% plus vivid original case colors with a few patches of light pitting and freckling visible,
40% original niter blue finish on top of the breech block, and sharp edges and markings in the metal. Wood is excellent with defined
edges, a few light scratches, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional Sharps Model 1863 rifle would make a prized
addition to any Civil War arms collection!
Provenance: The Andrew Singer Collection.
Estimate: 16,000 - 25,000 197