The U.S. Model 1861 was the standard musket in use during the Civil War and was manufactured by at least 23 manufacturers and a German contract made in Suhl, Germany. This rifle was contracted by J.T. Hodge and A. M. Burton and manufactured at the Trenton Locomotive and Machine Co., Trenton, New Jersey in 1863 and 1864. The lock is marked "1864" behind the hammer and marked with the eagle shield motif and "U.S. / TRENTON" in front of the hammer. The top of the barrel at the breech is marked "1863", the left upper flat is marked with the "V / P / eagle head" proof marks and the left flat is marked "N.J.". The rifle is equipped with the standard front sight/bayonet lug and three folding leaf rear sight and cleanout screw on the bolster. All parts are finished arsenal bright and the rifle is mounted with a full stock secured by three barrel bands, iron forend cap, iron ramrod with a tulip head and swelled shank, "NJ" in an oval cartouche on the left flat, a small "HD" to the rear of the trigger guard finial, and a sling swivel mounted on the front of the trigger guard and on the middle barrel band.

Excellent. The rifle retains most of the original arsenal bright finish with some scattered minor discoloration on the barrel. The buttplate has a gray patina with some discoloration and minor spotting. The trigger guard and finial are thinning to a smooth gray. The stock is excellent with virtually all of the finish remaining and a few scattered minor dings and dents. The markings are clear and crisp. The action is excellent. A very nice addition to any collection of U.S. martial percussion long guns.