Lot 3209

U.S. Marked Mass Arms Greene Patent British Type Carbine

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U.S. Marked Mass Arms Greene Patent British Type Carbine

Estimate: $3,500 - $4,750

Starting Bid: $3,000

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 23, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

U.S. Marked Massachusetts Arms Greene Patent British Type Breech Loading Carbine 2,000 of these British contract Greene patent carbines were made 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. Some of these carbines may have been purchased 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 British Crown over "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" and "S" sold out of service mark. The top of the barrel breech and frame have a British crown over "A/2" and "A/5", respectively. Various parts are marked with British proofs. It has the correct iron patch box on the right side of the buttstock with a small "U.S." stamped on the left heel. On the underside of the buttstock directly behind the trigger guard are several British acceptance proofs. Blade front, folding ladder rear sights and saddle ring mounted on the lower tang. Included with the carbine is a framed Greene's carbine directions sheet.

Manufacturer: Massachusetts Arms Co

Model: Greene

BBL: 18 inch part round

Stock: walnut

Gauge: .56

Finish: blue/casehardened

Serial Number1689

Class: Antique

  • Condition: Very fine. The barrel retains 60% plus original blue finish with some minor pitting on right side and the balance a mottled gray patina. The lock plate assembly retains 75% original bright case colors with areas faded to a smooth gray and the primer cover retains most of the bright original case colors. The buttplate has a smooth brown patina. The stock is very good, with some minor storage dings. The markings are clear and crisp. Mechanically functions. The directions sheet is very good with some minor creasing and stains overall.

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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