Description
Between 1861 and 1864 over 20,000 percussion model carbines were produced by the Starr Arms Company in.54 caliber with a barrel length of 21 inches (overall 37.65 inches long). Barrel with approx. 40% of the original blue finish remains. “STARR ARMS MFG. YONKERS NY” stamping very strong. Inspector’s initials “H.G.S.” on side of barrel. Rifling strong and bright. One minor area of pitting near breech.
Serial number “15268” on breech block. Strong bluing remains on lever and tang. Receiver has nice smooth gray patina. Hammer with light visible case colors. Rear lockplate with traces of blue, nice smooth surface; marking “STARR ARMS CO / YONKERS, NY” strong. Walnut forestock has minor dings but generally sharp edges Inspector stamp near buttplate “S.T.B.” Nice mellow brass buttplate. Mechanically perfect, all parts original.
This gun, according to Springfield Research Database, was issued to either the 9th Pennsylvania or 1st Arkansas Cavalry. Most of the Arkansas examples are marked on the top of the breech, but several are known to NOT have the state markings. The serial number range is absolutely correct for either unit. Examples with the specific Arkansas markings typically retail, in similar condition, from $3,500 to $4,250 in today’s market.
