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. The musket features a tulip head ramrod, two leaf rear sight, screw fastened barrel bands, solid bolster with an eagle and shield motif, and distinctive profile hammer. The lock plate and barrel are both dated "1864". The lock plate is roll-stamped: "U.S./COLT'S PT. F.A. Mfg. Co./HARTFORD CT." The left barrel flat is deeply stamped with "V/P/Eagle Head" proof and inspection marks. The sub-inspector's initials "M.N.M." are stamped on the left side of the barrel. "U.S." is stamped on the heel of the buttplate. Single letter sub-inspection marks are stamped on most components. The left stock flat is stamped with the script initials of the sub-inspector and final inspector. Included with the musket is a U.S. Model 1855 bayonet with a partial scabbard.

Excellent plus in nearly as issued "national armory bright" finish. The only significant wear is some superficial age spotting on the buttplate. The markings are extremely crisp. The rear sight has nearly all of the dull blue finish. The stock shows only a few very minor storage marks. The edges are extremely crisp. The stock has the raised, "feathered" grain found only on wood that has never been handled. The cartouches are deep and sharp. The Model 1855 Bayonet is very good overall; the shank and socket have some surface rust, but the bayonet would clean to very fine condition. The bayonet scabbard is fair and has a broken brass tip and is missing the hanger and throat. The leather body is fair. Overall a stunning example of a Colt Model 1861 Rifle-Musket that would be hard to improve upon.