Approximately 100,000 of these rifle-muskets were manufactured by Colt during the Civil War, loosely based on the British Pattern 1853 "Enfield" rifle-muskets, and some of the design elements were used on the Springfield Model 1863 rifles. "1863" dated barrel and lock, Colt Hartford address marking on the lock, eagle and shield emblem on the bolster, "V/P/eagle head" proofs, "STEEL" and "M.N.M" inspection initials at the left of the breech, "AWM" and "JT" (John Taylor) boxed script inspection cartouches stamped on the left stock flat, and "US" marked buttplate.

Fine, with scattered moderate surface freckling on the otherwise bright iron surfaces, most of the original blue finish on the rear sight, and absolutely sharp markings and edges on the lock and barrel. The stock is very fine with attractive original raised grains and rich oil finish, scattered light scratches and handling marks, a long, horizontal gouge visible on the left stock flat surrounded by exceptionally crisp cartouches, and distinct edges in the wood overall. Mechanically excellent.