Colt Model 1861 Special Rifle-Musket manufactured in 1864. Colt manufactured an estimated 75,000 of these rifle-muskets between 1861-1865. Many of the features introduced on the Model 1861 Special Rifle-Muskets were subsequently adopted by Springfield Armory on the Model 1863 and Model 1864 Rifle-Muskets. These muskets are finished in a "National Armory Bright" that consists of a high polished lock plate, hammer and barrel bands. The rear sight has a dull blue finish, the trigger is casehardened and the black walnut stock is oil finished. The lock plate and barrel are both dated "1863". The lock plate is roll-stamped "U.S./COLT'S PT. F.A. Mfg. Co./HARTFORD CT." in three lines in front of the hammer. The face of the percussion nipple bolster is stamped with a small eagle and shield motif. The left barrel flat is deeply stamped with "V/P/Eagle Head" proof and inspection marks. The Ordnance sub-inspector's initials "E.P.R." are stamped on the left side of the barrel just above the edge of the stock. "U.S." is stamped on the heel of the buttplate. Single letter Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on most components. The left stock flat does not carry any Ordnance sub-inspector or final inspector cartouches. The musket features a straight shank, tulip head ramrod, two leaf rear sight, screw fastened barrel bands, bolster with no provision for a clean-out screw, and distinctive profile hammer.