An estimated 100,000 Special Model 1861 rifle-muskets were manufactured by Colt before the end of 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 rifle. When you consider Colt also manufactured over 200,000 revolvers during the war and suffered a factory fire, and the fact that many contractors failed to supply a few thousand firearms throughout the war, this number is incredible. This exceptional example has an "1863" dated lock and barrel, crisp boxed script "DAP" and JT" inspection cartouches stamped on the left stock flat, trumpet head ramrod, standard blade front and three leaf rear sights, "U" marked barrel bands, and "U.S" marked buttplate.

Excellent plus, nearly as issued. The metal surfaces retain their armory bright, with minimal patches of very minor freckling, and absolutely sharp markings and edges. The rear sight retains 95% of the original blue finish. The stock is also excellent, with highly attractive original oil finish and raised grains, distinct edges overall, a few minor handling marks, some small chips ahead of the trigger guard, and exceptionally crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. This outstanding Colt Model 1861 Special rifle-musket is a true time capsule!