SOLD - Colt Special Model 1861 Rifle - NJ Regiment

Description

12/22/22 - Colt manufactured around 100,000 of these Special Model 1861 rifle-muskets between 1861 and 1865 using surplus machinery from the Robbins & Lawrence Co. that had been originally used to produce Pattern 1853 rifle-muskets for the British during the Crimean War. They were manufactured under contract for the Union Army as well as state units and for the commercial market. This one has an 1862 date on the barrel and an 1864 date on the lock plate. There is a "NJ" New Jersey regimental marking on the left side of the barrel. Two military cartouches on the left side of the stock. Overall, the gun is in fair condition. There is light brown patina throughout and areas of pin-pricking around the breech and on the trigger guard. There is pitting and a series of small dings on the butt plate. No major damage to the stock - just the typical signs of use. There is what appears to be a "6" stamped into the left side of the butt stock. There is what appears to be an "M" scratched lightly into the left side, near the wrist. The bore is excellent - shiny with strong rifling. Comes with cleaning rod. Seems to function as it should.