This is a very fine, original example of a U.S. Springfield Armory Model 1855 Rifled-Musket that was manufactured prior to the Civil War in 1860. The musket is finished ''National Armory Bright'' and has a black walnut, oil-finished stock with an iron forend cap and patch box, and two visible oval cartouches on the left flat. The lock is dated "1860" behind the hammer and stamped "U.S./ SPRINGFIELD" below the bolster. The tape primer compartment lid is stamped with the Springfield Eagle and Shield motif. The top barrel flat is marked with "JDB" over the faint date "1859" and the left side of the barrel is stamped with the "V/P/eagle head" proof and inspection marks. The buttplate tang is stamped "U.S.". Blade front and folding three leaf rear sights, iron tulip head ramrod and brass and wooden barrel plug. Springfield Armory manufactured 47,115 Model 1855 Rifle-Muskets between 1857 and 1861. Most of these muskets were issued to the regular U.S. Army regiments and elite volunteer units at the start of the Civil War.

Very fine. The metal surfaces have a smooth silver-gray patina, with some darker areas on the lock, primer lid and hammer. The stock is also very fine with crisp cartouches and some overall scattered minor scratches and dents. The markings are clear and crisp. The action is excellent. These Model 1855 rifle-muskets are highly underestimated and difficult to find in this fine of condition!