U.S. Model 1861 Special Colt Contract Rifle Musket Dated 1864 / SLD

U.S. Model 1861 Special Colt Contract Rifle Musket Dated 1864 - Inventory Number: RIF 192 / SOLD

This original Civil War shoulder arm is a Colt "Special Model 1861" contract rifle musket made from 1861 to 1865 by the Colt Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut. Though no serial numbers were used during the production of the MI861 Special musket, records indicate that some 100,000 such muskets were produced during that period with many supplied for various state sub-contracts.

This longarm is a percussion, 58 caliber, single-shot muzzleloader with the standard 10" round barrel. The markings are clear with proof marks

"VP" on the left barrel breech facet, with "STEEL. A date "1864" is stamped on top of the breech. Bore is bright with good rifling.

Lock plate markings are standard Colt Special markings: "U. S. / COLT'S PT F. A. MFG CO / HARTFORD, CT' in front of the hammer and "1864" date behind. All markings are clear. Spread-winged eagle stamped on flat bolster below the nipple. Most gun metal exhibits a smooth silver color. Mechanics are strong and crisp.

Ramrod is present and complete. Musket has the standard two-leaf rear sight and three of the screw-type barrel bands. Sling swivels at the trigger guard and the middle band. Butt plate is stamped "US", marked in period font with the original owner's initials "A.M.". A beautiful walnut stock with two crisp cartouche marks on the left side of the stock, "904" stamped on the left side of the butt, and "E.M.W" stamped on the comb in front of the butt plate tang. The bore is bright and crisp, and in overall very fine condition.

Inventory Number: RIF 192 / SOLD