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Sharps Model Ring Carbine
LOT 98
Extraordinary Civil War Era Sharps New Model 1863 Percussion
Saddle Ring Carbine - Serial no. C,25167, 52 cal., 22 inch round bbl., blue/ casehardened finish, walnut stock. This extraordinary Civil War Sharps New Model 1863 carbine features blade front and Lawrence patent rear sights, “NEW MODEL 1863” marked behind the rear sight, 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 lockplate. Serial number marked on the upper receiver tang and no disassembly was performed to be able to view the underside of the barrel out of respect for the untouched nature of this gun. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on some components. “T.W.R” (Thomas W. Russell) inspection initials marked on the left of the barrel at the breech and on the sideplate. “A.W.M” inspection initials stamped on the underside flat of the forearm and ahead of the buttplate tang. This is one of the three finest condition known surviving examples of a Sharps New Model 1863 percussion carbine. Rock Island Auction Company is fortunate to have the opportunity to offer this extraordinary Sharps!
CONDITION: Excellent plus, mint as can be and nearly as issued,
retains 98% attractive original blue finish on the barrel with very light
wear around the muzzle. 98% plus captivating and vibrant original case
colors remain with only slight fading on the barrel band, hammer, lever,
and buttplate. Crisp markings overall. Wood is excellent plus with pleasing original raised grain, rich oil finish, a few light handling marks and dents, defined edges and exceptionally sharp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. An extraordinary example, nearly impossible to improve upon, of a Sharps New Model 1863 percussion saddle ring carbine that would make a prized addition to any U.S. Martial collection!
Provenance: The Vince Rausch Collection; The David Aroh Collection; The Ron Bucholtz Collection.
Estimate: 27,500 - 42,500
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