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Massachusetts Arms Greene Patent British Type Breech Loading Carbine

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military / Long Guns - Carbines Start Price:1,200.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,750.00 USD
Massachusetts Arms Greene Patent British Type Breech Loading Carbine
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Massachusetts Arms Greene Patent British Type Breech Loading Carbine

This is a British contract Greene patent carbine of which 2,000 were manufactured under contract to the British Government in 1855 to be used in the Crimean War. Evidently they saw little service and many were destroyed or scrapped for parts. It's believed that some of the carbines may have been bought back by the U.S. during the Civil War. The upper tang is marked "GREENE'S PATENT/JUNE 27. 1854", the lock plate is marked "MASS ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS/U.S.A. 1856" next to a large British Crown over the cypher of Queen Victoria "V x R", and the primer cover is marked "MAYNARD'S PATENT/SEP. 22. 1845". The left side of the barrel has a double "British Broad Arrow" proof with a letter "S". Various parts are marked with British proofs and a spurious "U.S." is stamped on the buttstock (left side). It has the correct iron patch box on the right side of the buttstock, blade front, folding ladder rear sights and saddle ring mounted on the lower tang.

Manufucture: Massachusetts Arms Co
Model: Greene
BBL: 18 inch round
Stock: walnut
Guage: 54 percussion
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 1687

Fine. The carbine retains 40% original blue finish and 60% original case colors with the balance a smooth gray patina. Some minor pitting is present (mostly on the barrel). Primer door is stiff, otherwise action is fine. The sanded and repaired stock is good with a few minor pressure dents.