#15 • Civil War Poultney & Trimble Smith's Patent Breech-Loading Percussion Carbine

Part of March 2025 Firepower Auction (timed auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $600.00

Status: Sold

Category: Firearms

Manufacturer: Poultney & Trimble Massachusetts Arms Co. Type: Rifle Model: N/A Caliber:.50 Barrel Length: 21.5" Optics: N/A ATF Form 4473 Required: No Log: N/A S/N: 21495 Ref #: N/A Condition Notes: The Smith’s Patent Carbine, produced by Poultney & Trimble under contract for the Union during the American Civil War, is a breech-loading, percussion-fired firearm known for its innovative rubber-cased ammunition and ease of use by cavalry units. Designed by Dr. Gilbert Smith and patented in 1855, the carbine saw widespread service with Union forces, particularly among mounted troops, due to its fast reloading capability and durability in the field. This example, serial number 21495, features a 21.5-inch barrel and is chambered in .50 caliber. The Smith Carbine employs a unique hinged action, allowing the barrel to pivot downward when the latch is released for loading. It utilizes a percussion cap ignition system, striking a nipple at the rear of the chamber to ignite the black powder charge. The firearm includes a saddle ring on the left side of the receiver, a walnut stock with a steel buttplate, and a fixed front post with an adjustable rear sight. Weighing approximately 7.5 to 8 pounds, it balances portability with stability. Based on serial number data, this carbine was likely produced around 1863, during the peak of Smith Carbine manufacturing when large contracts were being fulfilled for Union cavalry units. Approximately 30,000 were produced between 1861 and 1865, with serial numbers generally ranging from 1 to about 31,000. The Smith Carbine was issued to several prominent cavalry regiments, including the 7th and 11th Illinois Cavalry, the 1st Massachusetts Cavalry, the 3rd West Virginia Cavalry, and the 7th and 17th Pennsylvania Cavalry. These units saw significant action in key campaigns, including the battles of Antietam, Gettysburg, and throughout the Shenandoah Valley. Well-regarded for its accuracy and reliability, the Smith Carbine remains a sought-after collector’s firearm, reflecting the technological advancements that shaped military firearms of the era. This example represents a tangible link to Civil War cavalry operations and the evolution of breech-loading firearm design. Please see the photographs for more details, or contact us at 907-570-7050 or email us at FFL@alaskapremierauctions.com / Admin@alaskapremierauctions.com to schedule an in-person preview of the firearm. ***All federal firearm background checks are conducted in-house, please allow pick-up times to reflect paperwork processing time (approx. 30-45 minutes).