^Lot 43 Very Rare Civil War Gibbs Breechloading Percussion Carbine

Very Rare Civil War Gibbs Breechloading Percussion Carbine, NVSN, .52 cal., 22" round barrel with standard blade front/2-leaf rear sights, marked "B" at left breech; receiver marked "L.M. Gibbs/Pat'd./Jan'y. 8, 1856" at top has flat lockplate marked "(federal eagle)" behind hammer, "Wm. F. Brooks/Manfr. New York/1863" ahead, cleanout screw at nipple bolster, finger-loop trigger guard/operating lever, sling ring/bar at left. Halfstock of oil-finished walnut has iron nosecap/barrel hinge with 4" lower tang, crescent buttplate marked "U.S." at top. Mfg'd 1863, in just 1,052 qty. Condition is good retaining no original finishes, being overall lightly-etched gray-brown gunmetal with fine edges/markings. Breech operates smoothly, locks up tightly, hinge is secure. Loose-fitting hammer is a modern replacement. Stock is sound, shows scattered moderate dings, 1.5" crack at left breech, added finish, lacks inspector's mark. Action is crisp, bore shows overall etching and fine rifling. Est.: $2,000-$3,000. (Antique)