An estimated 100,000 Special Model 1861 rifle-muskets were manufactured by Colt between 1861-1865 during the Civil War, according to "Flayderman's Guide" (9th Edition, 5B-255). These Colt Special Model 1861 rifle-muskets were 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 outstanding example appears to have seen little if any use at all. It has a blade front sight that doubles as a socket bayonet lug, blue finished three-leaf rear sight, "1864" dated tail of the lock with "U.S." above the Colt manufacturer and Hartford address markings at the center of the lock, a federal eagle motif on the percussion bolster, "1864" date on top of the breech of the barrel with "V/P/(eagle head)" proofs at the upper left and "M.N.M" inspection initials at the left of the breech, crisp bordered script "JHL" and "JT" inspection cartouches stamped on the left stock flat, "U" marked barrel bands, trumpet head iron ramrod, single letter inspection initials on various components, and "E.M.W" inspection initials stamped on top of the buttstock ahead of the "U.S" marked buttplate.

Excellent. The iron surfaces retain their highly attractive original armory bright appearance, with a few small patches of very minor surface freckling, and absolutely sharp markings and edges. The rear sight retains 97% original blue finish, and the trigger retains 90% plus original blue finish. Stock is also excellent with attractive grain, distinct edges, a few minor dents and handling marks, and exceptionally crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional Colt Model 1861 Special rifle-musket would be extremely difficult to improve upon!