Lot 145

Joslyn Model 1855 "Monkey Tail" Breech Loading Carbine

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Joslyn Model 1855 "Monkey Tail" Breech Loading Carbine

Estimate: $4,500 - $7,000

Starting Bid: $4,000

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 21, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Very Scarce Joslyn Model 1855 "Monkey Tail" Breech Loading Percussion Saddle Ring Carbine Less than 1,500 of these Joslyn "Monkey Tail" carbines are estimated to have been manufactured between 1855 and 1856 by Asa H. Waters of Millbury, Massachusetts, with 1,200 known to have been purchased by the U.S. government per page 625 of "Flayderman's Guide, 9th Edition". These are known to have been issued to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 6th Ohio Cavalry regiments in limited numbers. They are significant as 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. Features a large pinched blade front sight, ladder rear sight, and a left mounted saddle bar and ring. "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. "A3" marked on the left of the breech block, and "A" on the right of the brass barrel band.

Manufacturer: Waters A.H.

Model: 1855 Joslyn Patent Carbine

BBL: 22 1/2 inch round

Stock: walnut

Gauge: .54

Finish: blue/casehardened

Serial NumberNSN

Class: Antique

  • Condition: Fine, retaining 50% plus original plum blue finish and 40% plus original case colors with smooth grey and brown patina on the balance, silvering on the saddle bar and ring, light scrapes and scuffs, attractive yellow patina on the brass hardware, and clear markings. The stock is very good with light scuffs and cracks around the lock. The monkey tail is stiff to release; otherwise, mechanically functions.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000