Originally developed for sale to the United States Government, Colt wound up with a quantity of 1861 Special Rifle-Muskets that had been rejected by the ordnance inspectors. Colt's loss, defrayed by selling the arms to Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, turned out to be a gain for several states, including New Jersey, who acquired the arms for their militia forces at below standard rate. Blade front and 3-leaf folding rear sights, with the American eagle on the bolster, "1862" on top of the chamber, conjoined "VP" on the upper left flat, "N.J" and "STEEL" on the left flat. The lock plate is marked "1862" to the rear of the hammer, and "U.S./COLT'S Pt F.A. Mfg Co/HARTFORD, Ct" ahead. Smooth straight grip stock, with a tulip head ramrod, three screw-secured "U" barrel bands, sling swivels, a "N.J" stamp opposite the lock, and a "U.S" marked buttplate. With a "US/C" marked socket bayonet, 21 inches overall with an 18 inch triangular spike.

Very good plus, with some minor spotting and handling marks on the arsenal bright steel. The stock is very good, with scratches and dents. Bayonet is good, with a mixed brown and gray patina and scattered handling marks. Mechanically very good.