This Model 1861 Special Musket was manufactured by Colt circa 1864. This model was a simplified version of the Springfield Model 1861. It featured a distinctively shaped hammer, nipple bolster with no clean-out screw, two-leaf folding rear sight, screw-fastened Enfield type barrel bands and a straight shank, tulip head ramrod. The rear sight is graduated for 100, 300 and 500 yards. The straight grain black walnut stock is oil finished. The barrel has a block style front sight that serves as a bayonet lug. The lock plate is dated "1864" behind the hammer and roll-stamped "U.S./COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO./HARTFORD CT." in three-lines ahead of it. The nipple bolster is stamped with a small Federal eagle and shield motif. The top of the barrel is dated "1864" and the left side is stamped with "V/P/Eagle Head" proof and inspection marks parallel to the axis of the bore. The left barrel flat is stamped with a small "M.N.M." Ordnance sub-inspection initials followed by "STEEL" in block letters. "U.S." is stamped on the top of the buttplate heel. "U" is stamped on the right side of the barrel bands facing the muzzle. Small, single letter, Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on most components. The left stock flat is stamped with the Ordnance sub-inspection and final inspection marks. One mark consists of the script initials "AWM" in a rectangle with rounded ends. The other inspection mark consists of the script initials "JT" in a rectangle with rounded ends. There is also a small "EMW" mark on the stock just in front of the buttplate tang.

Good. A dark brown patina covers nearly all of the metal surfaces. The lock plate is brighter than the other areas but has significant spotting. There are some dings and scratches overall including a series of rough scratches just ahead of the marks on the left barrel flat. The wood is very good with sharp cartouches, a well worn area above the lock plate, a small chip in front of the trigger guard and the typical small scuffs and minor dings throughout. Most of the markings are clear and the action is fine.