^Lot 3502 ATTRACTIVE CIVIL WAR NEW MODEL 1863 SHARPS

MILITARY RIFLE. Cal. 52. S# 42436. Standard configuration, 30" barrel, "SHARPS RIFLE / MANUFG CO / HARTFORD CONN" just forward of Lawrence patent rear sight, "NEW MODEL 1863" at breech. Lock and frame are marked with three different patent dates. The front sight has small brass blade, otherwise all iron mounted including hinged toolbox, 3 barrel bands, and sling swivels. Serial number is in range of Model 1859 models, but New Model 1863 were first delivered early 1865. A crisp pair of inspection cartouches opposite lock "AWM" & "TWB". There is also a small set of initials stamped on top of comb "AWM" with is the inspector found on many of the late martial Henry rifles, which possibly inspected for VRC. Some Sharps in this S# range were issued to 5th Michigan June 1865. CONDITION: very good to fine overall, no finish-but very sharp, all original, matching, and complete, rear sight long leaf is broken. Metal is overall untouched plum/gray patina, good markings, stocks are well fit, inspection cartouches opposite lock are crisp. Mechanically fine, good sharp rifled bore. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of John "Jack" Dhooghe. (01-28277/JS). ANTIQUE. $2,000-3,000.