Smith M1857 Civil War U.S. Carbine Breech-Loader Rifle, SN 2504

Item Details

Dr Gilbert Smith received a patent for his 0.50 caliber breech-loading rifle on June 23, 1857. Ahead of its time, the rifle used rubber cartridges, and broke in the center to reload. This carbine underwent successful military trials prior to the outbreak of the Civil War, and then saw action with various cavalry regiments including: 6th and 9th Ohio, 1st Connecticut, 1st Massachusetts, 7th and 17th Pennsylvania, 7th and 11th Illinois, and the 3rd West Virginia Regiments. Only cavalry units were issued this rifle.

Type	Rifle
Brand	Massachusetts Arms Company
Caliber	50
Marks	Maker’s Mark, Country of Origin, City, Patent Date
Barrel Materials	Steel
Origin	United States
Barrel Length (in.)	21
Stock Materials	Walnut
Period	Mid-19th Century, Antique
Serial Number	2504
Action Type	Percussion Cap
Load Type	Breech Loader
Additional Information	This rifle’s serial number is stamped 2504, and would likely have been a pre-war issue used by the Pony express. The Union government purchased most of the 31 000 carbines produced, but many fell into the hands of confederates troops early on in the civil war.

Condition

- aged patina; crosses and stars carved into the walnut stock; missing two screws, scratches and gauges on stock; stampings or markings are strong; untested; this antique firearm may have been altered or replaced in the past; completion unknown and not guaranteed.

Dimensions

- measurements of the rifle.

• Item is unable to be shipped or transferred due to specific carrier restrictions. Item must be picked up locally by winning bidder during the published pickup times.

• Any firearm purchased should be thoroughly inspected prior to firing. If the caliber is not marked the caliber is an estimate based upon measurements. Please check with a qualified gunsmith before firing any ammunition.

Item #

ITMG645274