The flat bevelled lock has the date code “851” for 1851 and is struck with the Imperial Austrian double headed eagle on the tail. Sighted smoothbore barrel with the contractor’s initials “CH” at the breech, probably for Carl Hesier. The walnut half length stock has a raised cheek piece and is fitted with iron mounts including a side plate extending to form a bar incorporating the saddle suspension rings, and iron ramrod. Numerous regimental marks throughout. Reputedly as many as 10,000 of these carbines, rifled and converted to percussion, were imported into America during the Civil War. Others were converted to flintlock and imported later like this one.

Very good. Iron parts cleaned with a light grey patina, some scattered corrosion marking visible. Stock cleaned with some age related storage and handling marking. Mechanically excellent.