Only 1,500 of these Joslyn "Monkey Tail" carbines are estimated to have been manufactured by A. H. Waters of Millbury, Massachusetts in 1855 and 1856, and were the last firearms manufactured by Asa H. Waters. The Waters family had been involved in U.S. martial arms contracts since at least the 1808 contract muskets. These Joslyn carbines are known to have been issued to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 6th Ohio Cavalry regiments in limited numbers. Features a large pinched blade front sight, ladder rear sight and a left mounted saddle bar and ring. There are no visible ordnance proof or inspection marks. "A.H. WATERS & Co/MILBURY MASS" marked on the lock, "PATd BY/B.F.JOSLYN./AUG.23.1855" marked on top of the breech block in reference to inventor Benjamin F. Joslyn, "G3" marked on the left of the breech block and "F1" marked on the right of the barrel band. Provenance: The Anthony Daum Collection; The David Aroh Collection; The Ron Bucholtz Collection

Exceptionally fine, retains 90% original brown finish on the barrel with one patch of light pitting on the left and some scattered light scratches. 60% plus original case colors remain, strongest in protected areas and muted on the exposed surfaces with some very light freckling. Crisp markings on the lock and breech block. The stock is very fine with attractive original raised grains, numerous scattered light scratches and dents, a small chip behind the sideplate, a minor crack behind the lock, a hairline crack on the left ahead of the buttstock, a professionally repaired section visible at the toe with touched up oil finish, and distinct edges overall. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional example of a very scarce Joslyn "Monkey Tail" carbine that would make an excellent addition to any U.S. Martial arms collection!