This is an early Civil War 1862 dated example of a Springfield Armory 1861 pattern rifle-musket, the primary Civil War musket as used by the Union forces. Although nearly 1,000,000 Model 1861 Rifle-Muskets were manufactured by Springfield Armory and various contractors during the Civil War, Springfield Armory muskets manufactured during the first years of production saw hard service and are desirable. The lock plate has the standard "eagle/shield" and "U.S. / SPRINGFIELD" markings ahead of the hammer and is dated "1862" behind it. The left barrel flat has the standard "V / P / eagle head" proof and inspection marks and the top flat is also dated "1862". The lock, trigger guard, barrel, barrel bands and buttplate are "arsenal bright". The stock is oil finished walnut with two cartouches on the left flat. The musket has a two leaf folding rear sight and a tulip head steel ramrod with swollen shank. Complete with a "US" marked socket bayonet and incorrect World War I era canvas sling with the hardware marked "NOBUCKL".

Fine. The crisp metal surfaces are bright as once lightly cleaned with scattered areas of discoloration. The breech end of the barrel shows very light flash pitting. The markings on the metal surfaces are crisp and clear. The stock is fine showing signs of some light sanding, sharp flat edges, a minor 1 1/2" crack on the left side of the buttstock at the butt extending forward, a small minor gouge on the right side forearm and overall a few minor dings and dents. The buttplate is a bit ill-fitting at the toe. The cartouches are readable. The bayonet is good with an overall smooth mottled gray patina. Mechanically excellent. A fine representative Civil War Model 1861 Springfield Rifled Musket that would compliment any collection