Sad to say you do NOT have an original carbine, as that number occurs in the midst of a range that is ALL rifles.

Carbines did not have slings of the type you describe. Is there a bar and ring on the left side? How ling is the stock, 30" or 32"? Also, if the receiver has been drilled and tapped for a peep-sight, value has been drastically reduced.

As to the handkerchief story, I'm sorry to say that points like that can NEVER be substantiated to the point of increasing value.

As to individual usage - we only have data on about 5% of the numbers, with only a few individuals listed. But, how could anyone research "42xxx"? Do you suspect that the gun was stolen? That is the ONLY reason for hiding the number.

Don't mean to seem harsh, but I hope that item was not sold to you as a genuine carbine, let alone a Rough Rider one. If so, you were the victim of fraud.