This Parker Snow contract 1861 Musket features the Miller 58 caliber conversion. Approximately 2,000 of these muskets were converted to breech loading by Meriden Manufacturing circa 1865-1867. The lock plate is marked "1864" behind the hammer and "eagle / U.S." and "PARKERS' SNOW & CO. / MERIDEN. CONN." ahead of the hammer. The 58 rimfire conversion breechblock lifts upward for loading and the firing pin angles through the block. The top of the breechblock is marked "W.H. & G.W. MILLER / PATENT MAY 23, 1865" and "MERIDEN MFG. CO. / MERIDEN, CONN.". The underside of the block is marked "1530". The front sight is fixed and doubles as a bayonet lug and the rear sight is a folding three leaf variation marked "1", "3" and "5". The barrel bands are marked "U" and the buttplate tang is marked "U.S." Complete with an iron cleaning rod. Smooth stock, with "J.S.G." stamped on the toe. These muskets were the first venture in firearms manufacturing by Charles Parker, a founder of the famous Parker Brothers shotgun firm

Very good with 30% blue on the breechblock, bright cleaned steel overall with scattered pitting and handling marks. Stock is very good, with a few mild chips around the edges, scattered pressure dents and light scratching. Mechanically fine.